Tennis Elbow: Understanding the Causes, Symptoms, and Management Options

Despite its name, tennis elbow is not limited to people who play tennis. In clinical practice, it is often seen in individuals who have never picked up a racquet. Many people describe a sharp or aching pain on the outer part of the elbow, which is commonly aggravated by gripping, lifting, or holding everyday objects.

Tennis elbow—also known as lateral epicondylitis—is an overuse condition involving the tendons of the forearm extensor muscles. These muscles are responsible for wrist and finger extension and are frequently used during repetitive or sustained gripping tasks. While tennis elbow does not affect the spine, it is a common musculoskeletal condition that can often be managed effectively with appropriate care and guidance.

Common Causes of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow can occur at any age, though it is most commonly seen in adults between 35 and 50 years old. It typically affects the dominant arm but may occur on both sides.

A common misconception is that tennis elbow only affects athletes. In reality, it is just as prevalent in people whose work or daily activities involve repetitive forearm use. This includes office workers, tradespeople, manual workers, gardeners, and parents who perform repeated lifting or gripping tasks.

The Role of Referred Pain

An important but often overlooked contributor to elbow pain is referred pain from the neck, shoulder, or upper back. In some cases, symptoms felt at the elbow may originate from these regions, or there may be a combination of local elbow irritation and reduced movement or tension elsewhere in the upper limb or spine.

A thorough assessment by a qualified health professional can help determine whether elbow pain is isolated or linked to other areas. Identifying these contributing factors can support a more targeted management approach and may assist in improving recovery outcomes.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow commonly presents as pain or tenderness at, or just below, the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow. Symptoms are often aggravated by activities that involve:

• Gripping or holding objects

• Lifting or carrying

• Repetitive wrist or hand movements

Clinical findings may include tenderness around the elbow, reduced grip strength, tight or weak forearm muscles, and restricted movement in the wrist or elbow joints.

The severity and duration of symptoms can vary significantly. Early assessment and appropriate management may help reduce the likelihood of symptoms becoming persistent.

General Management Approaches

Management of tennis elbow typically focuses on reducing pain, supporting tissue recovery, and gradually restoring strength and function. Depending on individual needs, this may include a combination of:

• Soft tissue techniques

• Joint mobilisation of the elbow and wrist

• Stretching of muscles and nerves

• Heat or cold therapy

• Dry needling (where appropriate)

• Strapping or brace support

Supportive braces may help reduce strain on the affected tendon during daily activities.

Supporting Recovery and Preventing Recurrence

Progressive strengthening plays a key role in tendon health. Tendons respond best to gradual and controlled loading, which helps support tissue healing and long-term resilience. Even once pain improves, continuing with appropriate strengthening exercises is important to reduce the risk of recurrence.

Addressing contributing factors such as workstation setup, posture, and movement habits can also be beneficial. In some cases, sleep posture or pillow support may be considered, particularly if neck or shoulder involvement is identified.

Experiencing persistent elbow pain or difficulty with gripping and lifting?

If you’re looking for a chiropractor in Balwyn North to help assess and manage tennis elbow and related upper limb discomfort, Well By Design Chiropractic offers personalised care focused on movement, function, and long-term wellbeing.

Book an appointment today to support your recovery and return to comfortable daily activity.