Tennis Elbow: Causes, Treatment & Prevention (Lateral Epicondylitis)

By Dashvanth Healthcare Medical Team · Reviewed by Dr. Shahrukh Khan, MS Ortho, DNB Ortho (MAMC/NBE) · East Delhi

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is an overuse injury causing pain at the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, only 5% of patients play tennis — it commonly affects painters, carpenters, butchers, office workers, and anyone performing repetitive gripping or wrist extension.

Causes

Repeated microtrauma to the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon leads to tendinosis — degeneration rather than true inflammation. Overuse, poor technique, and inadequate warm-up are common precipitants.

Symptoms

• Pain and burning on outer elbow, radiating into forearm
• Weak grip strength
• Pain worsened by gripping, lifting, turning a doorknob
• Tenderness directly over the lateral epicondyle

Treatment Ladder

1. Activity modification and ergonomic adjustment
2. NSAIDs and ice for pain relief
3. Physiotherapy — eccentric strengthening exercises
4. Tennis elbow brace (forearm counterforce strap)
5. Corticosteroid injection (short-term relief, avoid repeated injections)
6. PRP injection — better long-term outcomes than steroids
7. Surgical release — reserved for <5% of patients failing all conservative care