What is tennis elbow and what causes it?

Tennis elbow is a tendinopathy of the common extensor tendon at the outer elbow, causing pain and tenderness worsened by gripping and wrist extension. It is predominantly an overuse injury from repetitive forearm loading — in computer users, manual workers, and racquet sport players. Despite the name, the majority of cases occur in people who have never played tennis.

What treatments work best?

Eccentric and isometric wrist extensor exercises are the most evidence-supported rehabilitation approach. Acupuncture provides meaningful pain relief. Massage, dry needling, and myofascial release of the forearm extensor muscles address soft tissue components. Corticosteroid injections provide short-term relief but impair long-term tendon healing. Activity modification during rehabilitation is essential.

How long does recovery take?

Tennis elbow is slow to resolve — most cases take 6 months to 2 years to fully recover with appropriate management. The majority do resolve without surgical intervention. Consistent rehabilitation, rather than passive treatment alone, produces the best long-term outcomes.

Can I continue using my arm during recovery?

Graded use is the goal — complete rest is counterproductive. Provocative loading must be carefully managed, however. A physiotherapist or sports therapist can advise on which activities to modify, how to progress loading, and how to return to full activity safely.

Musculoskeletallow Risk

Tennis elbow

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury causing pain and degeneration in the outer elbow tendons.

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Reviewed by Dr. Ian Henderson · Microbiobial Health & Medicine26 March 2026Emerging evidence

Quick answer

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury causing pain and degeneration in the outer elbow tendons.

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Outer elbow pain,grip weakness,pain with lifting,forearm tightness,reduced strength

What is Tennis elbow?

A common overuse tendon condition affecting the outer elbow due to repetitive strain and loading.

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Related Conditions

Lateral Epicondylitis

Tendinopathy

Musculoskeletal Pain

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