What Is Tennis Elbow? Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Risk Factors

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain on the outside of your elbow. Although the name suggests it affects only tennis players, anyone can get tennis elbow. In fact, this condition, also called lateral epicondylitis, happens when the tendons in your elbow become swollen or damaged. Usually, this is due to overuse or repeated movements of the arm and wrist. Many people search for tennis elbow pain relief because the discomfort can affect daily tasks.

Common Symptoms

Often, tennis elbow starts with mild pain. However, the pain can get worse over time. You may notice symptoms like:

Pain or burning on the outside of your elbow

Weak grip strength

Pain that gets worse when lifting, gripping, or twisting objects

Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning

Sometimes, the pain may spread down your forearm. But, it usually stays around the elbow area.

Causes and Risk Factors

Most cases of tennis elbow are caused by overuse. Repeating the same arm and wrist movements can strain the tendons. For example, playing tennis, painting, or using tools can lead to this problem. However, you do not need to play sports to get tennis elbow. Other risk factors include:

Age between 30 and 50 years

Jobs or hobbies with lots of arm movement

Poor technique during sports or work

Weak muscles in the arm or shoulder

Even though anyone can develop tennis elbow, it is more common in people who use their arms a lot.

How Tennis Elbow is Diagnosed

Doctors usually diagnose tennis elbow by asking about your symptoms and examining your arm. Sometimes, they may ask you to move your wrist, elbow, or fingers in certain ways. In some cases, your doctor may order an X-ray or MRI to rule out other problems. However, most of the time, these tests are not needed. Early diagnosis helps you start the right treatment and prevent further damage.

Treatment Options

There are many ways to treat tennis elbow. Most people get better with simple steps. Your doctor may suggest:

Resting your arm and avoiding activities that cause pain

Using ice packs to reduce swelling

Taking pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

Wearing a brace or support on your forearm

Doing gentle stretching and strengthening exercises

Physical therapy for guided recovery

In rare cases, if pain does not improve, your doctor may suggest injections or surgery. However, most people recover without surgery. According to the CDC, non-surgical treatments work for about 80% to 95% of people with tennis elbow.

Lifestyle Tips and Home Remedies

There are many things you can do at home to help with tennis elbow pain relief. For example:

Apply ice for 15 minutes, several times a day

Rest your arm as much as possible

Use a soft brace or band to support your elbow

Try gentle arm stretches to keep your muscles flexible

Take breaks during tasks that use your arm

Additionally, avoid lifting heavy objects until your pain gets better. These simple steps can speed up healing and prevent further injury.

Prevention Strategies

While tennis elbow can happen to anyone, you can lower your risk. Here are some tips for preventing tennis elbow:

Use proper technique when playing sports or working

Warm up and stretch before activities

Strengthen your arm and shoulder muscles

Take regular breaks from repetitive tasks

Use tools with comfortable grips

By following these steps, you can protect your elbow and avoid future problems.

When to See a Doctor

Sometimes, tennis elbow pain does not go away with home care. If your symptoms last more than a few weeks, or if the pain gets worse, you should see a doctor. Also, if you have trouble moving your arm or notice swelling, seek medical advice. Early treatment can help you recover faster and prevent long-term damage.

In summary, tennis elbow is a treatable condition. However, it is important to get the right care. Consult an orthopedic specialist for personalized advice on managing tennis elbow.