Understanding Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Elbow pain can make even the simplest activities frustrating. Whether you're playing pickleball, golfing, working with tools, lifting weights, or simply picking up a coffee cup, pain along the outside of the elbow can interfere with daily life.
One of the most common causes of this type of discomfort is a condition known as tennis elbow.
Despite its name, tennis elbow does not only affect tennis players. Many active adults, athletes, and working professionals develop this condition through repetitive use of the arm and forearm.
Understanding why it happens is often the first step toward finding the right path forward.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow.
Over time, repetitive stress can place strain on these tendons, leading to irritation and discomfort during everyday activities.
Although it is commonly associated with racket sports, tennis elbow can develop from many different types of repetitive movement.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is often related to repeated gripping, lifting, or twisting motions.
Common activities that may contribute include:
- Tennis
- Pickleball
- Golf
- Weight training
- Construction work
- Plumbing
- Carpentry
- Painting
- Computer work
- Gardening
- Repetitive lifting
In many cases, people cannot identify one specific injury. Instead, symptoms gradually develop over time.
Common Symptoms
People with tennis elbow may experience:
- Pain on the outside of the elbow
- Weakness when gripping objects
- Pain while lifting
- Discomfort when shaking hands
- Difficulty opening jars or doors
- Pain that may travel into the forearm
- Symptoms that worsen with repetitive activity
The severity of symptoms can vary from person to person.
How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?
A proper evaluation begins with a careful history and physical examination.
During an assessment, factors that may be considered include:
- Location of pain
- Activities that trigger symptoms
- Previous injuries
- Occupational demands
- Athletic participation
- Overall function
In some situations, imaging studies may help evaluate other conditions that can produce similar symptoms.
A proper diagnosis is important because not all elbow pain is caused by tennis elbow.
Treatment Considerations
Treatment should always be individualized.
Depending on the specific diagnosis and patient goals, management strategies may include:
- Activity modification
- Rehabilitation exercises
- Physical therapy
- Bracing when appropriate
- Image-guided injections
- Interventional procedures
- Regenerative medicine discussions
- Surgical consultation when necessary
The right approach depends on the patient, the severity of symptoms, and the overall clinical picture.
Pickleball and Tennis Elbow
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, more players are experiencing elbow pain related to repetitive movement.
Interestingly, many people who develop "pickleball elbow" are actually experiencing the same type of tendon irritation commonly associated with tennis elbow.
Technique, equipment, training volume, and overall conditioning may all play a role.
When Should You Seek An Evaluation?
You may want to consider an evaluation if:
- Elbow pain is interfering with daily activities.
- Symptoms are not improving.
- Grip strength is decreasing.
- You are unable to participate in sports or work comfortably.
- You are unsure about the cause of your pain.
Understanding the source of the problem can help guide future decisions.
The Dr. Peaches Perspective
Dr. Peaches believes that many orthopedic conditions deserve a thoughtful and individualized approach.
Not every patient requires the same treatment, and not every person with tennis elbow has the same underlying cause.
The goal is to understand the problem, educate patients about their options, and help them make informed decisions based on their lifestyle and personal goals.
Procedures are tools.
Education comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can tennis elbow heal on its own?
Some cases may improve with time and appropriate activity modification, while others may require additional evaluation and treatment.
Do you have to play tennis to get tennis elbow?
No. Many people who develop tennis elbow have never played tennis. Repetitive work activities and other sports may contribute.
Can pickleball cause tennis elbow?
Repetitive swinging and gripping motions associated with pickleball may contribute to symptoms in some individuals.
Does everyone with tennis elbow need surgery?
No. Many people explore non-surgical treatment pathways. The most appropriate option depends on the individual patient and diagnosis.
Should I bring imaging to my consultation?
If you have previous MRI studies, X-rays, or other imaging, bringing those records may provide additional information during the evaluation process.
Request a Consultation
If elbow pain is limiting your ability to work, train, compete, or enjoy everyday activities, an expert evaluation may help you better understand the cause of your symptoms and the treatment pathways that may be appropriate for your individual situation.
When available, prior imaging studies and medical records can be helpful in developing a more complete understanding of your condition.