Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. While tennis players can experience this condition, it affects anyone who performs repetitive wrist or elbow movements, from gardeners and painters to desk workers and athletes.
This consolidated guide combines insights from several VanCity Physio articles to give you a complete overview of what tennis elbow is, why it happens, how to treat it, and how physiotherapy can support both recovery and long-term performance.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow is an overuse injury of the elbow and wrist “extensor” muscles—specifically the tendon portion that attaches near the outside of the elbow. Tendons are cord-like structures that connect muscle to bone, and the tendon most commonly affected is from the extensor carpi radialis brevis muscle, though others may also be involved.
It is a painful disorder characterized by the weakening or microtrauma of the tendons that join your forearm muscles to your bones. While tennis only accounts for 5–10% of cases, the condition more often develops during repetitive or strenuous tasks such as gardening, painting, typing, or using a chainsaw.
What Does Tennis Elbow Feel Like?
Common symptoms include:
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Pain on the outer side of the elbow, sometimes radiating down into the forearm or wrist
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Worsened pain with gripping, twisting, or extending the wrist
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Reduced ability to grip objects without pain
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Possible night pain
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Discomfort where the forearm meets the elbow
What Causes It?
A change in elbow load—such as a new sport, increased intensity, or a repetitive work task—may lead to microtrauma in the tendon. As the repetitive movement continues, the body struggles to heal, resulting in prolonged pain and irritation.
Repetitive or forceful elbow and wrist activity is the primary cause, not just tennis.
Can Tennis Elbow Be Prevented?
Yes. You can reduce your likelihood of developing tennis elbow by:
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Ensuring adequate warm-ups with dynamic movements
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Building strength and flexibility in the forearm and elbow
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Using proper grip and form with equipment (tennis rackets, computer mouse, tools)
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Improving ergonomics at work
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Gradually increasing training loads
Finding Relief at Home
You can begin managing tennis elbow at home by:
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Stopping or modifying the aggravating activity
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Resting the arm
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Using ice in the first 48–72 hours and switching to heat after the initial soreness subsides
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Trying pain medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen (follow all label instructions)
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Using cold or heat packs for 10–15 minutes at a time
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Wearing a counterforce brace during gripping and twisting tasks
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Using NSAID creams if appropriate
These steps may help reduce pain before beginning structured physiotherapy.
How Physiotherapy Helps: Treatment Approaches
Physiotherapy plays a central role in treating tennis elbow, with goals to reduce pain, improve function, and promote tendon healing. At VanCity Physio, treatment may include:
1. Pain Management
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Ice and heat therapy
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Activity modification
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Ergonomic advice
2. Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
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Eccentric exercises for the wrist extensors
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Wrist and forearm stretches to improve flexibility
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Progressive loading to rebuild tendon strength
3. Manual Therapy & Joint Mobilization
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Soft tissue mobilizations
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Deep tendon friction
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Soft tissue release
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Massage
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Mobilization of the elbow joint to improve range of motion
4. Additional Modalities
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Shock-wave therapy
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IMS
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Ultrasound or laser therapy (effectiveness varies but some individuals find relief)
5. Bracing and Taping
Braces or tape can support the affected tendons and reduce strain during daily activities.
6. Education
Your physiotherapist will teach you:
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When to ice or heat
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Movements to avoid temporarily
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Proper equipment grip and posture
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How to safely strengthen the tendon
Tennis Elbow in Athletic Performance
Many athletes who visit VanCity Physio are striving to perform at their best—and that includes overcoming injuries like tennis elbow.
Sports Rehabilitation: Bouncing Back Stronger
Through therapeutic exercises, manual techniques, and targeted interventions, physiotherapists help athletes:
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Regain strength, flexibility, and mobility
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Reduce pain and inflammation
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Return to pre-injury performance levels (or better)
Sports-Specific Training
To optimize performance, physiotherapists incorporate training tailored to the movements, skills, and demands of an athlete’s sport. This helps improve:
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Strength
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Agility
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Endurance
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Movement patterns essential to performance
Functional Movement Assessments
Physiotherapists assess fundamental movements (such as squats, lunges, and jumps) to uncover:
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Weaknesses
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Imbalances
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Faulty mechanics
Addressing these not only enhances performance but also reduces the risk of future injuries.
Injury Prevention Strategies
Prevention includes:
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Strength and conditioning programs
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Biomechanical analysis
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Personalized injury-prevention plans
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Education and training on proper body mechanics
A Holistic Approach
VanCity Physio integrates mental and emotional factors into treatment. Stress management, visualization, and goal setting support a well-rounded, successful recovery.
Don't Wait to Get Help
Tennis elbow is painful and frustrating, but with early intervention and a structured physiotherapy plan, recovery is highly achievable. Whether you are a desk worker, weekend gardener, or high-performance athlete, the right treatment approach will help reduce pain, restore strength, and prevent future setbacks.
VanCity Physio is here to help you bounce back, stay strong, and reach your full potential. Book a Consultation Today!
