What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is overuse injury of the tendons that extend the wrist — pain at the outer (lateral) elbow. Affects 1–3% of adults, peak age 35–50. Despite the name, only about 5% of cases come from tennis; most from work or other activities.
Most cases resolve with conservative treatment over months. Persistent cases benefit from PT, bracing, or injection.
Do I have tennis elbow? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Repetitive wrist extension or gripping causing micro-tears in the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon. Triggers: tennis backhand, racket sports, computer work, painting, plumbing, gardening, heavy gripping.
Is it contagious?
No.
Most tennis elbow resolves on its own over 6–12 months — surgery is rarely needed and the success rate of conservative treatment is high.
Can it be treated online?
Routine tennis elbow is well-suited to telehealth. Treatment-resistant cases, suspected radial tunnel syndrome, surgical evaluation — benefit from in-person orthopedics or physiatry.
How tennis elbow is treated
Rest from triggering activity. NSAIDs short-term. Counterforce brace (band below elbow). Eccentric strengthening exercises — most evidence-backed. Physical therapy. Ice after activity. Steroid injection — short-term relief but may not improve long-term outcomes. PRP injection for refractory cases. Surgery rare.
Self-care while you wait
- Stop or modify aggravating activity
- Counterforce brace below elbow
- NSAIDs short-term
- Ice 15–20 min after activity
- Eccentric exercises: hold dumbbell, slowly lower wrist
- Stretches: wrist flexion stretch
- Improve ergonomics — mouse, keyboard, grip technique
- Strengthen forearm muscles when acute pain resolves
How long does it last?
6–12 months for full resolution typically. Some persistent symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get a steroid injection?
Provides short-term relief (4–6 weeks) but may not improve long-term outcome and possibly worsens recovery. Reserve for severe pain limiting function.
Will surgery help?
Rarely needed. ~95% improve with conservative treatment. Surgery for failed treatment after 12 months.
Are eccentric exercises better than stretching?
Yes — strong evidence. Lowering motion (eccentric) of wrist extension is key.
Can I keep playing tennis?
Modify technique with proper backhand form, consider lighter racket or different string tension.
What about new treatments like PRP?
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection has moderate evidence for refractory cases. Multiple sessions typical.
