What Causes Tennis Elbow and How Is It Treated?
Understand the real cause of your elbow pain, learn about effective non-invasive treatment options, and find out how personalized hand therapy in Doral, FL can help you recover and return to the activities you love.
Tennis Elbow Explained: A Direct Answer
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow. It is treated with rest, targeted therapy exercises, manual techniques, bracing, and in some cases medical interventions such as injections or surgery. Many people recover fully with conservative, non-surgical care guided by a qualified therapist.
What Is Tennis Elbow, Exactly?
Tennis elbow is a condition that affects the tendons on the outer side of your elbow. Despite the name, you do not have to play tennis to get it. In fact, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), most people who develop tennis elbow are not athletes at all. It commonly occurs from everyday activities that involve repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting with the hand and wrist.
The medical term is lateral epicondylitis (inflammation or degeneration of the tendon at the lateral epicondyle, the bony point on the outside of your elbow). Over time, the repeated stress on these tendons can cause tiny tears and irritation, leading to pain and weakness that may make it hard to grip a coffee mug, turn a doorknob, or shake someone’s hand.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
The primary cause is repetitive motion. When you use the same forearm muscles over and over, especially with force or in awkward positions, the tendons connecting those muscles to your elbow can become irritated and damaged. Common causes include:
-
Repetitive computer mouse or keyboard use
-
Gripping tools such as screwdrivers, hammers, or pliers for extended periods
-
Painting, plumbing, or carpentry work
-
Racquet sports with improper technique or equipment
-
Repeated lifting or carrying with the palm facing downward
-
Assembly line or factory work involving repetitive hand and wrist motions
Workers’ compensation patients often experience tennis elbow as a result of workplace tasks that involve sustained gripping or repetitive arm movements. If your job contributed to your elbow pain, you deserve care that addresses both the injury and the demands of your work environment.
Age also plays a role. According to the Mayo Clinic, tennis elbow is most common in adults between the ages of 30 and 50, though it can affect anyone who places repeated strain on their forearm tendons.
What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow symptoms typically develop gradually. You may notice a dull ache on the outside of your elbow that becomes sharper when you use your arm. Common symptoms include:
- Pain or burning on the outer part of the elbow
- Weak grip strength, especially when holding objects or shaking hands
- Pain that worsens when you twist your forearm (turning a jar lid, for example)
- Stiffness in the elbow, particularly in the morning
- Pain that radiates from the elbow down into the forearm and wrist
These symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some people find that the pain comes and goes at first but becomes more constant over time if left unaddressed.
How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?
A physician or qualified therapist can typically evaluate tennis elbow through a physical examination. During the evaluation, the clinician may press on the outside of the elbow, ask you to straighten your wrist against resistance, and assess your grip strength. These tests help determine whether the tendons at the lateral epicondyle are the source of your pain.
In most cases, imaging is not required. However, your physician may order an X-ray to rule out other causes of elbow pain, such as arthritis or a fracture. An MRI or ultrasound may be used if the diagnosis is uncertain or if your symptoms have not improved with initial treatment.
When Should You See a Therapist or Physician?
If your elbow pain has persisted for more than a few weeks, or if it is making it difficult to perform daily tasks at work or home, it is a good idea to schedule an evaluation. Early intervention often leads to better outcomes.
You should seek prompt medical attention if you experience sudden severe swelling in the elbow, inability to bend or straighten your arm, signs of infection (such as fever, redness, or warmth around the joint), or numbness and tingling that is spreading down your arm. For any medical emergency, call 911.
If you are in the Doral, Miami, or surrounding Miami-Dade area, Hands On Therapy offers a free Discovery Visit so you can discuss your symptoms with a specialist before committing to a treatment plan. You can also reach the clinic at 786-615-9879 or through telehealth if an in-person visit is not convenient.
How Is Tennis Elbow Treated Without Surgery?
The good news is that many people with tennis elbow recover with conservative, non-surgical treatment. According to the AAOS, approximately 80% to 95% of patients improve without surgery.Treatment typically involves a combination of the following approaches.
Rest and Activity Modification
The first step is often reducing or modifying the activities that triggered the condition. This does not mean you need to stop using your arm entirely. Instead, a therapist can help you identify which motions are contributing to the problem and teach you alternative ways to perform tasks that place less stress on the affected tendons.
Occupational and Hand Therapy
Specialized occupational and physical therapy is one of the most effective conservative treatments for tennis elbow. A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) can design a personalized program that may include:
-
Eccentric strengthening exercises that gradually load the tendon to promote healing
-
Manual therapy techniques such as soft tissue mobilization and joint mobilization to reduce pain and improve mobility
-
Stretching exercises for the forearm extensors and flexors
-
Ergonomic education to help you set up your workstation or modify how you use tools
-
Bracing or strapping with a counterforce brace (a strap worn just below the elbow) to reduce strain on the tendon during activity
At Hands On Therapy in Doral, FL, Hoang Tran, OT/L, CHT, and her team provide one-on-one care for patients with elbow pain, including tennis elbow. Because every case is different, treatment is tailored to your specific symptoms, daily demands, and recovery goals. This personalized approach can make a significant difference in how quickly you improve and how well your results hold over time.
Other Conservative Options
Depending on your situation, your physician may recommend additional treatments alongside therapy:
-
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication (such as ibuprofen) for short-term pain relief
-
Ice application to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day
-
Corticosteroid injections for temporary pain relief, though these are not typically a long-term solution
-
Shockwave therapy or regenerative approaches may be discussed with your care team
It is worth noting that while injections can provide short-term relief, some research suggests they may not improve long-term outcomes compared to therapy alone. Your physician and therapist can help you weigh these options based on your individual situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow
How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
Recovery time varies by individual and depends on the severity of the condition, how long you have had symptoms, and how consistently you follow your treatment plan. Many people notice improvement within 6 to 12 weeks of conservative therapy, though some cases may take longer.
Can tennis elbow heal on its own without treatment?
Some mild cases may resolve with rest and activity modification alone. However, without proper guidance, symptoms can linger or return. Working with a qualified therapist can help speed recovery and reduce the chance of recurrence.
Do I need surgery for tennis elbow?
Most people do not need surgery for tennis elbow. According to the AAOS, the vast majority of cases respond to conservative treatment. Surgery is typically considered only after several months of non-surgical treatment have not provided adequate relief.
Is tennis elbow the same as golfer’s elbow?
No. Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the inside. Both are caused by repetitive use, but they involve different muscle groups.
Can I exercise with tennis elbow?
You can often continue exercising, but you may need to modify certain activities. A therapist can guide you on which exercises are safe and which to avoid temporarily. Strengthening the forearm under proper guidance is actually part of the recovery process.
What is the difference between a hand therapist and a regular physical therapist?
A Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) is an occupational therapist or physical therapist with advanced training and at least 4,000 hours of clinical experience treating conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder. This specialization means they have deeper expertise in upper extremity conditions like tennis elbow.
How Hands On Therapy in Doral, FL Can Help With Your Tennis Elbow
Living with elbow pain can be frustrating. Simple tasks like typing, cooking, carrying groceries, or playing with your kids can become painful reminders that something is not right. You may have tried resting, icing, or even wearing a brace from the pharmacy, only to find that the pain keeps coming back. If that sounds familiar, you are not alone, and there are effective options available to you.
At Hands On Therapy, located at 7902 NW 36th St, Suite 207, Doral, FL 33166, Hoang Tran, OT/L, CHT, specializes in treating conditions of the hand, wrist, elbow, neck, and shoulder. As a Certified Hand Therapist and published author of The Hands-On Approach, she brings focused expertise to every patient she works with. The clinic’s approach is one-on-one and personalized, meaning you will not be passed from therapist to therapist or left doing exercises on your own in a corner.
Whether your tennis elbow developed from work-related repetitive tasks, a sport, or everyday activities, the team at Hands On Therapy creates a plan specific to your condition and your goals. Many patients find that with consistent, guided therapy, they can return to their normal routines without relying on medication or considering surgery.
The clinic also offers a free Discovery Visit, which allows you to meet with a specialist, discuss your symptoms, and learn about your options with no obligation. If you are in Miami-Dade County or prefer the convenience of a virtual appointment, telehealth sessions are available as well.
What Recovery and Home Exercises Can Look Like
Your therapist may recommend specific exercises to do between visits. These often include gentle wrist extensions, forearm pronation and supination stretches, and progressive eccentric strengthening using a light weight or resistance band. Consistency with your home program plays an important role in recovery. Your therapist will adjust these exercises as you progress, ensuring you are always working at the right level for your healing stage.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every person’s condition is unique. A personal evaluation with a qualified therapist or physician is needed for individual guidance. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
This article was created with the help of AI. Images may also be AI-generated.
