Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
Why Does the Outside of My Elbow Hurt?
Pain on the outer part of the elbow that worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting motions — like shaking hands or lifting a coffee cup — is the hallmark of tennis elbow, a breakdown of the tendon fibers that attach the forearm's extensor muscles to the outer elbow. Despite the name, it's common in people who've never played tennis.
Causes & Symptoms
Repetitive gripping and wrist extension — common in manual labor, racquet sports, and even typing or computer mouse use — gradually breaks down the tendon at its attachment point. It is very common in our 40’s and 50’s regardless of activities. Symptoms include aching or burning pain over the outer elbow, weakness with gripping, and pain when lifting objects with the palm facing down.
Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosis is usually made by exam alone. The large majority of cases improve with nonsurgical treatment: activity modification, a counterforce brace, physical therapy focused on eccentric strengthening, and sometimes injections. Surgery is reserved for the minority of patients whose symptoms persist despite 6-12 months of thorough nonsurgical treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Do I need to stop all activity to heal tennis elbow?
Not entirely — activity modification rather than complete rest, combined with targeted physical therapy, is generally more effective than avoiding all use of the arm.
How long does tennis elbow take to resolve?
Most cases improve over several months with consistent nonsurgical treatment, though it can be a slow, gradual process that requires patience.
Do I need to be seen right away for tennis elbow?
Generally no- you can start with avoiding lifting anything with the palm facing down, try anti-inflammatories, and avoid the activities that seem to aggravate it. If it persists for several weeks, it may be worth getting evaluated and starting physical therapy.