Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Although we have rarely had a patient who has tennis elbow as a result of actually playing tennis, Pain Science Physical Therapy is experienced in treating lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow.  

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a type of tendinitis that affects the tendons attached to the elbow, which causes pain in the surrounding muscles. This tendonitis is a result of overuse and causes the tendon to have microtears. The muscles that become painful are typically the extensor digitorum muscles, the extensor carpi radialis longus, and the extensor carpi ulnaris. All of these are attached to the lateral epicondyle (outer elbow). These muscles are responsible for gripping and lifting the fingers and wrist up.

The common causes of tennis elbow are using a computer mouse on a regular basis for extended time, using gardening tools often, sports, etc. Any activity that requires a strong, repetitive grip can cause tennis elbow.

Tennis Elbow Symptoms

Lateral epicondylitis symptoms include:

• Pain in the elbow region of the arm when gripping
• Pain that worsens at night
• Pain when extending and bending the arm
• Burning sensation in the elbow region¹
• Weakness when gripping
• Tenderness around the elbow
• Stiffness of the elbow
• Aching in the elbow and forearm 

Exercises for Tennis Elbow

As tennis elbow is often a short-lived, easily treated condition, there are exercises that can be performed at home to treat it before trying other treatments. 

Exercise 1: The wrist flexion stretch involves straightening the elbow and using the unstraightened arm’s hand to push the active arm’s hand downwards. If done correctly, there will be a stretching sensation in the painful area of the elbow and across the upper forearm. Hold this stretch for intervals of 20-30 seconds. Complete this stretch two to three times a day. For best results, do this as a warm up and cool down stretch for activities that require lots of gripping and use of the elbow.

Exercise 2: The wrist extension stretch involves straightening the elbow and facing the palm upwards. Use the other hand to lightly push the straightened arm’s palm down. If done correctly, there will be a stretching sensation in the wrist and across the upper forearm. Hold this stretch for intervals of 20-30 seconds. Complete this stretch two to three times a day. For best results, do this as a warm up and cool down stretch for activities that require lots of gripping and use of the elbow.

Exercise 3: The wrist extension exercise using a resistance band stretch involves extending the affected arm, wrapping the band on its wrist, and holding the other end of the band in the free hand. Then, for three seconds, slowly bend the wrist upwards to lift the band. Next, slowly and gently lower the wrist and band in six seconds time. The goal of this exercise is to resist the downwards pull of the resistance band against the wrist in a controlled manner. Complete 10-20 repetitions once or twice a day. 

These three exercises will start the healing process. However, if the tennis elbow doesn’t improve after two weeks, then call Pain Science Physical Therapy to have your pain and function evaluated and be given an individualized treatment plan.

Physical Therapy for Tennis Elbow

When at home methods of treatment such as rest, home exercises, and pain medication just aren’t healing tennis elbow well enough, physical therapy is the best form of treatment.

Physical therapy will heal the tennis elbow from its source. It will also provide training on how to prevent it from returning. The weak points of your body will be discovered and strengthened, successfully avoiding and preventing future injuries.

Physical therapy for tennis elbow includes: 

• Education on the condition, its origin based on the patient’s personal history, and prevention of recurrence 
• Education on pain science
• Monitored exercises to improve strength, mobility, and flexibility and reduce pain
• Training on the use of a brace 
• Suggestions for lifestyle changes 

If you believe you have tennis elbow, schedule an appointment to find treatment from one of our physical therapists by using our online portal or calling (206) 327-9880.

Sources:

1. https://orthoinfo.aaos.org/en/diseases--conditions/tennis-elbow-lateral-epicondylitis/ 
2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/lateral-epicondylitis-tennis-elbow 
3. https://www.pennmedicine.org/for-patients-and-visitors/patient-information/conditions-treated-a-to-z/tennis-elbow