Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common cause of outer elbow pain — especially in people who perform repetitive arm and wrist movements. Despite the name, you don’t need to play tennis to develop this painful condition.
In this blog, we’ll explore what causes tennis elbow, its symptoms, and most importantly, how physiotherapy can help you recover and prevent it from coming back.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury involving the tendons of the forearm that attach to the outside of the elbow. When these tendons are repeatedly stressed — through work, sport, or even daily activities — they can become inflamed or degenerated, leading to pain and reduced function.
Medical term: Lateral Epicondylitis
Common in: tradies, desk workers, parents, athletes
Tennis Elbow Symptoms
Typical symptoms of tennis elbow include:
- Pain or tenderness on the outside of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting, twisting, or typing
- Weakened grip strength
- Discomfort during activities like opening jars or lifting a coffee cup
Symptoms often develop gradually and may get worse over weeks or months if untreated.
Common Causes and Risk Factors
What causes tennis elbow? It usually stems from repetitive motion or poor biomechanics, including:
- Using hand tools or power tools regularly
- Prolonged computer use (keyboard and mouse)
- Playing racquet sports like tennis, squash, or badminton
- Lifting or carrying heavy objects with poor technique
- Lack of strength or flexibility in the arm or shoulder
Repetition + poor form = increased strain on elbow tendons
Tennis Elbow Treatment Options
Most cases of tennis elbow can be treated without surgery — especially when diagnosed early.
Effective tennis elbow treatment may include:
- Rest and modified activity
- Ice or heat therapy for pain relief
- Forearm braces or elbow straps (short-term use)
- Eccentric strengthening exercises
- Manual therapy to improve tissue health
- Education on ergonomics and movement patterns
Avoid long-term use of corticosteroid injections unless advised — they may weaken the tendon further.
How Physiotherapy Can Help with Tennis Elbow
If you’re searching for tennis elbow physiotherapy near me, you’re on the right track.
A physiotherapist can provide:
- Hands-on treatment to reduce pain and tension
- Personalised exercise programs for the forearm, wrist, and shoulder
- Advice on posture and desk setup (ergonomic support)
- Guidance for a safe return to work, sport, or daily activity
- Long-term strategies to prevent recurrence
Physiotherapy addresses the root cause, not just the symptoms.
Looking for Tennis Elbow Treatment in Willoughby?
At Physioclinic Willoughby, we treat tennis elbow with evidence-based physiotherapy that helps you recover safely and effectively.
Don’t ignore persistent elbow pain — the earlier you treat it, the faster your recovery.
Location: Suite 1, 181 High Street, Willoughby NSW
Phone: (02) 8540 7319
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.movementscience.com.au