Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Physiotherapy for Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects the outer part of the elbow and forearm. It occurs when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow become irritated or inflamed.

At Rehab8, we focus on identifying the underlying causes of your pain and providing targeted physiotherapy strategies to relieve discomfort, restore function, and help prevent future episodes.

1. What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a type of tendon overuse injury that affects the extensor tendons of the forearm. Despite its name, it is not exclusive to tennis players and can develop in anyone who repetitively uses the wrist and forearm muscles.

The condition is characterized by pain and tenderness on the outer elbow, which may worsen with gripping, lifting, or twisting movements. If left untreated, tennis elbow can lead to weakness and reduced function in the affected arm.

2. Common Causes and Symptoms

Tennis elbow develops when the forearm tendons experience repeated stress, causing microscopic tears and inflammation.
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Common Causes

• Repetitive movements involving the wrist and forearm, such as typing, painting, or lifting objects
• Sports-related overuse, including tennis, squash, or other racquet sports
• Improper technique during sport or work tasks that strain the elbow tendons
• Grip-intensive tasks, such as using hand tools or gardening
• Muscle weakness in the forearm, increasing tendon strain
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Common Symptoms

• Pain or tenderness on the outer elbow, especially when gripping or lifting
• Weakness in the forearm and wrist
• Pain radiating down the forearm toward the wrist
• Discomfort that worsens with repetitive activities
• Difficulty performing daily tasks such as opening jars, shaking hands, or typing
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Early management is important to prevent chronic tendon irritation and maintain arm function.

3. How Physiotherapy Helps Recovery

Physiotherapy is an effective approach for managing tennis elbow, reducing pain, and restoring strength and function. At Rehab8, treatment is tailored to your condition and daily activity needs.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Your physiotherapist evaluates tendon integrity, elbow joint mobility, grip strength, and movement patterns to determine the root causes of your symptoms.

Manual Therapy and Soft Tissue Release

Manual therapy, soft tissue release, and targeted massage help reduce tendon irritation, improve blood flow, and relieve discomfort.

Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises

Exercises focus on gradually strengthening the forearm muscles and tendons while improving flexibility to prevent recurrence.

Activity Modification and Ergonomics

Guidance on modifying work tasks, sports techniques, and posture helps reduce strain on the elbow during daily activities and recreation.

Functional Rehabilitation

Exercises and therapy strategies are designed to restore normal function for lifting, gripping, and sports movements. Progression is gradual to ensure the elbow can handle activity without flare-ups.

Education and Prevention

You’ll receive advice on load management, stretching, strengthening, and proper mechanics to support long-term tendon health.

Takeaway

Tennis elbow can limit daily activities and sports performance, but targeted physiotherapy can relieve pain, restore function, and prevent future injuries. At Rehab8, we focus on improving tendon strength, movement mechanics, and arm function so you can return to your daily activities and sport with confidence.