Tennis Elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is characterized by pain and discomfort on the outer part of the elbow. While it is commonly associated with tennis, it can also occur due to repetitive movements in other sports like swimming or climbing, as well as in various occupational settings where repetitive motions are involved. Therefore, this condition is considered an overuse injury.

Symptoms typically include radiating pain from the outside of the elbow toward the wrist, decreased grip strength, and tenderness over the lateral epicondyle.

While Tennis Elbow is often associated with tennis players due to the repetitive nature of hitting the ball, only a small percentage of cases result from tennis activities. This means the condition can affect a wide range of individuals beyond tennis players.

Treatment for Tennis Elbow involves various approaches aimed at reducing pain and improving function. These may include:

Wrist extension and flexion stretching and strengthening exercises
Application of ice and/or heat
Therapeutic ultrasound therapy
Manual manipulation of the elbow joint

In addition to the mentioned treatments, physiotherapists may also recommend other interventions such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), laser therapy, activity modification advice, acupuncture, cupping, dry needling, therapeutic taping, or bracing to alleviate pain and improve function. These interventions are tailored to the individual needs of each patient to effectively manage Tennis Elbow and facilitate recovery.

References

1. Pathan, A. F., & Sharath, H. V. (2023). A Review of Physiotherapy Techniques Used in the Treatment of Tennis Elbow. Curēus (Palo Alto, CA), 15(10), e47706–e47706. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.47706

2. Ahmed, A. F., Rayyan, R., Zikria, B. A., & Salameh, M. (2023). Lateral epicondylitis of the elbow: an up-to-date review of management. European Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery & Traumatology, 33(2), 201–206. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00590-021-03181-z

3. Ma, K.-L., & Wang, H.-Q. (2020). Management of Lateral Epicondylitis: A Narrative Literature Review. Pain Research & Management, 2020, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2020/6965381