Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is a pain condition caused by overuse of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, the vast majority of people who experience this problem don't play tennis. Office workers using computer mice, carpenters, chefs, musicians, and anyone performing repetitive wrist movements are at risk.
Symptoms usually begin gradually. You first notice mild tenderness on the outside of the elbow. Over time, this pain appears even during everyday movements like turning a doorknob, lifting a cup, or shaking hands. Pain radiating down the forearm toward the wrist is common. Morning stiffness and decreased grip strength are typical findings.
Diagnosis is usually made through physical examination. Pain when your doctor presses on the outer bony prominence of the elbow and pain shooting to the elbow when you force your wrist backward confirms the diagnosis. Ultrasound or MRI may be ordered to assess the extent of tendon damage and rule out other conditions.
The first step of treatment is rest — but this doesn't mean complete immobilization. Limit activities that increase pain, but continue normal hand use. Ice application and anti-inflammatory medications control pain during the acute phase. A tennis elbow brace reduces the load on the tendon, providing comfort during daily activities.
Physical therapy is the most effective treatment for tennis elbow. Eccentric exercises (controlled lowering movements with weight) strengthen the tendon structure and trigger healing. A physical therapy program typically lasts six to twelve weeks. More than eighty percent of patients recover with this conservative treatment.
For cases that don't respond to conservative treatment, PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injection may be considered. PRP is a growth factor concentrate prepared from the patient's own blood, aimed at accelerating tendon healing. Cortisone injection can reduce pain in the short term, but since it weakens tendon structure over time, it is no longer recommended as a first-line treatment.
Surgery is considered for approximately five percent of patients who don't improve despite all conservative treatments over six to twelve months. The damaged tendon tissue is cleaned through arthroscopic or open surgery. Full return to activity is expected within three to six months after surgery.
The most effective way to prevent tennis elbow is to take regular breaks during repetitive wrist movements. If you use a computer, an ergonomic mouse and wrist support will pay for themselves. Adding simple forearm strengthening exercises to your daily routine significantly reduces the risk of recurrence.