Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Effective Diagnosis and Personalized Treatment at Medworld Clinic
Tennis Elbow, medically known as Lateral Epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the outer part of the elbow. It occurs due to repetitive stress or overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, leading to inflammation and small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus (upper arm bone).
Despite the name, this condition is not limited to tennis players—it can affect anyone engaged in repetitive wrist and arm movements.
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Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
- Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Pain that radiates from the elbow down the forearm
- Discomfort when lifting, gripping, or twisting
- Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning
Symptoms typically worsen with activities such as shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or holding a cup of coffee.
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What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis Elbow is commonly caused by repetitive movements or strain to the forearm muscles. Risk factors include:
- Playing racquet sports (tennis, squash, etc.)
- Repetitive motion in jobs like carpentry, painting, or plumbing
- Prolonged computer use or typing
- Weightlifting or improper gym technique
- Aging (most common in people aged 30–50)
Diagnosis at Medworld Clinic
At Medworld Health & Rehabilitation Center, diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical evaluation. Our physicians may:
- Conduct a physical exam to assess pain and range of motion
- Review medical and activity history
- Use diagnostic imaging (such as ultrasound or MRI) if necessary to rule out other conditions
Our goal is to ensure a personalized and accurate diagnosis, leading to effective treatment tailored to your needs.
Treatment Options
We offer a comprehensive, non-surgical, and multidisciplinary approach to treating Tennis Elbow:
- Physical Therapy: Targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles, improve flexibility, and relieve pain.
- Manual Therapy: Hands-on techniques to release muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce tendon strain.
- Shockwave Therapy: A modern non-invasive technique that stimulates healing in the affected area.
- Ozone and PRP Injections: Regenerative treatments such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and medical ozone injections promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation.
- Electrotherapy and Ultrasound: Used to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow in the affected area.
- Lifestyle Guidance and Ergonomic Training: Prevent recurrence by correcting movement habits and workplace ergonomics.
When Is Surgery Needed for Tennis Elbow?
Most people with Tennis Elbow recover with non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, rest, medications, and regenerative therapies like PRP or ozone injections. However, surgery may be necessary in the following situations:
- Persistent Pain: If symptoms last for 6 to 12 months despite consistent non-surgical treatment.
- Severely Limited Function: When elbow pain interferes significantly with daily activities or job performance.
- Confirmed Tendon Damage: Imaging (MRI or ultrasound) shows degeneration or tearing of the extensor tendon that is not healing.
- Failure of All Therapies: When advanced therapies (physical therapy, injections, shockwave therapy) offer no long-term relief.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is a condition where the tendons on the outside of the elbow become inflamed due to overuse. Despite the name, it doesn’t only affect tennis players—it can affect anyone who repetitively uses their forearm and wrist.
It is typically caused by repetitive motions, gripping, or wrist extension activities. Common causes include playing racquet sports, using tools, typing, or even frequent lifting.
Pain or burning sensation on the outer part of the elbow
Weak grip strength
Pain that worsens with forearm activity
Difficulty in lifting or holding objects
It’s most common in adults aged 30–50 who perform repetitive hand, wrist, or arm movements—athletes, carpenters, plumbers, office workers, and musicians are all at increased risk.
A physical examination is usually enough. However, ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess tendon damage if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Most cases respond to:
Rest and activity modification
Ice application and anti-inflammatory medications
Physical therapy
Ozone or PRP injections
Use of an elbow brace or support
With proper treatment, mild cases recover in a few weeks. Chronic or severe cases may take several months to fully heal.
Surgery is only considered after 6–12 months of unsuccessful conservative treatment. It involves removing damaged tendon tissue and reattaching healthy parts.
Yes. Use proper techniques during physical activity, take frequent breaks during repetitive tasks, and strengthen your forearm muscles with regular exercises.
Absolutely. Physical therapy is one of the most effective non-surgical treatments for Tennis Elbow. It focuses on pain reduction, tendon healing, and strengthening exercises to prevent recurrence.
