Condition
Tennis Elbow
Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow Pain
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) typically develops gradually and is often linked to repetitive arm and wrist movements. Common symptoms include:
- Pain on the outside of the elbow – Localised tenderness or aching around the bony part on the outer side of the elbow.
- Pain with gripping or lifting – Discomfort when shaking hands, lifting objects, or holding items such as a kettle or racquet.
- Radiating pain – Pain that may spread down the forearm and occasionally into the wrist.
- Weak grip strength – Difficulty with tasks that require hand strength, such as opening jars or turning doorknobs.
- Stiffness – A feeling of tightness or reduced flexibility in the elbow, especially in the morning or after periods of rest.
- Pain during wrist movements – Especially when extending or twisting the wrist (e.g. pouring from a jug or using tools).
How Physiotherapy Can Help
Physiotherapy is a proven and effective treatment for managing tennis elbow. A physiotherapist will assess your symptoms and develop a tailored treatment plan, which may include:
- Shockwave Therapy - Promotes the body's natural healing process. Usually within 4 to 6 sessions (depending on how long you’ve had the issue) you’ll have a full recovery.
- Manual Therapy – Hands-on techniques such as soft tissue release, joint mobilisations, and friction massage to reduce pain and improve movement.
- Targeted Exercise Programs – Strengthening exercises for the forearm, wrist, and shoulder to promote tendon healing and improve load tolerance, including eccentric exercises.
- Stretching and Mobility Work – To relieve tension in the muscles and tendons involved and restore flexibility.
- Activity Modification Advice – Guidance on adjusting daily activities and techniques to reduce strain on the elbow and support recovery.
- Bracing or Support – Use of a counterforce brace or taping to relieve stress on the tendon during activity.
- Education and Prevention – Tips on preventing recurrence by improving ergonomics, lifting techniques, and addressing contributing factors such as posture or muscle imbalances.
By addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes, physiotherapy helps reduce pain, restore function, and support a full recovery from tennis elbow.