Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow — also known as lateral epicondylitis or elbow tendinopathy — is caused by small tears or swelling in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the upper arm bone (the humerus).

These tendons help your hand grip, lift, and twist — so when they’re inflamed or damaged, everyday tasks can become painful.

Despite the name, only about 5% of cases are linked to playing tennis. Common causes include:

• Typing and mouse use
• DIY tasks (hammering, screwing)
• Repetitive factory work
• Cooking (especially meat cutting)
• Plumbing and painting
• Rowing, racquet sports, or even playing instruments

It’s most common in people aged 30–65.

• Pain or tenderness on the outside of the elbow
• Pain that radiates into the forearm or upper arm
• Weak grip or forearm strength
• Discomfort when:
  • Lifting or bending your arm
  • Turning a doorknob
  • Using tools or shaking hands
  • Typing or using a mouse
• Swelling over the outside of the elbow (if there’s tendinitis)
• Difficulty straightening your arm fully

The pain can range from mild to severe and might interfere with sleep or daily tasks.

See your healthcare provider if:

• Pain does not respond to rest, applying ice to the area, and regular anti-inflammatory use* (oral or topical) within the 1^st 2-3 days after onset of pain. Note rest includes elimination of all movements that strain the elbow listed above. *Note anti-inflammatories should be used with professional guidance bearing in mind any personal contra-indications to their use.
• You notice swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow
• Pain worsens or affects your ability to work, sleep or drive
• You experience tingling, numbness, or changes in skin colour in your arm or fingers

A doctor may perform a physical exam and, if needed, order imaging (ultrasound or MRI) to confirm the diagnosis.

If pain doesn’t ease, your doctor may recommend further support:

 Physiotherapy

Often the most effective treatment, involving:

• Massage
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• Ultrasound therapy (to increase blood flow)
• Advice on posture or movement changes when performing activities that aggravate pain

Corticosteroid Injections

Can help reduce pain and swelling in the short term, but don’t prevent recurrence.

Specialist referral for consideration for Surgery

Reserved for rare, persistent cases lasting more than 6 to 12 months. May slightly reduce grip strength.

You can lower your risk by:

• Taking regular breaks from repetitive tasks
• Using correct technique and posture in work or sport
• Avoid lifting heavy items with a straight arm and palm down
• Strengthening your forearm muscles through gentle resistance exercises
• Using properly sized equipment (e.g. correct tennis racquet grip)
• A Physiotherapist or Biokineticist can advise on these preventative actions

This brochure is for educational purposes only and is not intended to provide a diagnosis or treatment or replace the advice of your doctor, pharmacist, primary health care nurse or other health care provider. You are advised to discuss any questions or concerns you have with your health care provider.