TENNIS ELBOW – SPORTS INJURY REHABILITATION
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury involving irritation and degeneration of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow.
Despite its name, tennis elbow affects many non-tennis athletes, including gym-goers, golfers, CrossFit athletes, manual workers, and racket-sport players.
It develops when repetitive wrist extension and gripping overload the forearm extensor tendons.
Common Questions People Ask About Tennis Elbow
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is most commonly caused by repeated strain on the forearm muscles where they attach to the outside of the elbow, often due to repetitive wrist and hand movements, heavy lifting or gripping, poor technique in sport or work tasks, sudden increases in activity or training load, or prolonged desk work with poor ergonomics, leading over time to an overloaded and painful tendon rather than simple inflammation, which is why rest alone rarely resolves the problem.
What does tennis elbow pain feel like?
Most people describe tennis elbow pain as:
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A sharp or burning pain on the outside of the elbow
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Pain that worsens when gripping, lifting, or twisting
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Weakness when shaking hands, holding a cup, or opening jars
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Pain that may travel down the forearm
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Early on, the pain may only appear during activity. If ignored, it can become constant and affect daily tasks.
Tennis Elbow
How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
Recovery time depends on how early treatment starts and how consistent rehab is.
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​Mild cases may improve within 4–6 weeks
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Moderate cases often take 8–12 weeks
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Long-standing or untreated cases can take several months
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The key factor is not time alone, but whether the tendon is properly loaded and strengthened during recovery.
Does tennis elbow go away on its own?
In some cases, symptoms may settle over time, but many people experience recurring pain if the underlying cause isn’t addressed. Without proper rehabilitation, the tendon may remain weak and sensitive, making flare-ups more likely.
Targeted physiotherapy significantly improves recovery speed and reduces the risk of long-term issues.
What makes tennis elbow worse?
Tennis elbow often worsens with:
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Continuing painful activities without modification
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Repeated gripping or lifting
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Poor wrist and shoulder mechanics
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Ignoring early warning signs
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Relying only on rest, braces, or injections
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Painkillers may reduce symptoms temporarily but don’t solve the root problem.
Best Treatment for Tennis Elbow
Physiotherapy for tennis elbow
Physiotherapy is considered one of the most effective treatments for tennis elbow. Treatment focuses on:
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Reducing tendon sensitivity
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Improving forearm and grip strength
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Correcting wrist, elbow, and shoulder mechanics
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Gradual return to sport or work activities
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Education on load management and prevention
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Rather than avoiding movement, rehab teaches the tendon how to tolerate load again.
Should I use a brace or strap?
Elbow straps may help reduce pain during activity by decreasing strain on the tendon, but they should not be used as a standalone solution. They work best alongside a structured rehab programme.
Are exercises good or bad for tennis elbow?
The right exercises are essential for recovery. Specific loading exercises help the tendon remodel and regain strength. Random stretching or aggressive strengthening without guidance can make symptoms worse.
A physiotherapist will tailor exercises to your stage of recovery and activity level.
Can Tennis Elbow Be Prevented?
Yes. Prevention focuses on reducing overload and improving strength and movement quality.
Prevention tips:
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Build gradual strength in the forearm and grip
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Avoid sudden spikes in activity or training
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Improve wrist, elbow, and shoulder control
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Optimise work or sport technique
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Take breaks during repetitive tasks
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Early intervention at the first signs of elbow pain can prevent months of frustration later.
When Should You See a Physio for Tennis Elbow?
Prevention tips:
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Pain lasts longer than 1–2 weeks
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Grip strength is decreasing
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Pain interferes with work, sport, or sleep
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Symptoms keep returning
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Early treatment leads to faster recovery and better long-term outcomes.
Final Word
Tennis elbow is common, painful, and frustrating, but it’s also highly treatable with the right approach. Understanding why it happens and addressing the root cause is the difference between short-term relief and lasting recovery.
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