Tennis Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Treatment with Pain Management, Physical Therapy, and Acupuncture

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to pain and inflammation around the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition is not limited to tennis players; it can affect anyone who performs repetitive arm, wrist, or hand movements, such as painters, carpenters, office workers, and athletes.

If left untreated, tennis elbow can worsen, leading to chronic pain and weakness in the arm. Fortunately, pain management, physical therapy, and acupuncture are effective treatments to relieve symptoms and restore function.

Causes of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is primarily caused by repetitive strain and overuse of the extensor muscles in the forearm. Common causes include:

• Repetitive Arm Movements – Sports like tennis, golf, and weightlifting can strain the forearm tendons.
• Occupational Activities – Jobs involving frequent gripping, twisting, or lifting (e.g., carpentry, plumbing, painting) can contribute to tendon stress.
• Poor Ergonomics – Using improper technique in sports, manual labor, or even typing can lead to excessive strain on the elbow.
• Age and Wear-and-Tear – Tennis elbow is most common in individuals between 30-50 years old due to natural tendon degeneration.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Individuals with tennis elbow typically experience:

✔️ Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow
✔️ Weak grip strength
✔️ Increased pain when lifting, gripping, or twisting objects
✔️ Forearm stiffness and fatigue
✔️ Burning sensation in the elbow area

If symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, seeking professional treatment is recommended to prevent long-term complications.

Effective Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

1. Pain Management for Tennis Elbow

Managing pain and inflammation is the first step in treating tennis elbow. Effective pain relief methods include: