Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

What is Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)?

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a painful condition that occurs when tendons in your elbow are overloaded, usually by repetitive motions of the wrist and arm. Despite its name, athletes aren't the only people who develop tennis elbow. People whose jobs feature the types of motions that can lead to tennis elbow include plumbers, painters, carpenters, and butchers. The pain of tennis elbow occurs primarily where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the outside of your elbow. Pain can also spread into your forearm and wrist.

Symptoms

Diagnosis

Diagnosis typically involves: • Medical history to understand activities and onset of symptoms • Physical examination to check for pain when pressure is applied to lateral epicondyle • Resistance tests for wrist and finger extension • X-rays to rule out arthritis or other bone problems • MRI if diagnosis is uncertain or to assess severity • Ultrasound to visualize tendon damage • EMG to rule out nerve compression

Treatment

Treatment options include: • Rest and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms • Ice application to reduce pain and swelling • NSAIDs for pain and inflammation • Physical therapy including eccentric exercises • Bracing or strapping (counterforce brace) • Corticosteroid injections (though effects may be temporary) • Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections • Extracorporeal shock wave therapy • Surgery (debridement of damaged tendon tissue) for persistent cases • Gradual return to activities with proper technique