Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow (also called lateral epicondylitis) is the most common condition giving rise to elbow pain. Despite it’s name, it is more common in non tennis playing sports people than tennis players themselves. It is thought to be an inflammatory condition arising around the lateral epicondyle (small bony prominence at the bottom of the humerus) of the elbow. Symptoms are generally felt on the outside of the elbow.

The back of the forearm contains several muscles that are involved with extending the fingers, thumb and wrist. The tendons of these muscles come together in one sheath, called the common extensor tendon which is inserted into the lateral epicondyle of the humerus at the elbow joint. In response to minor injury, overuse, or sometimes for no obvious reason at all, this point of insertion becomes inflamed.

What causes Tennis Elbow?

This condition is commonly caused by overuse related to excessive use of the wrist in everyday or sporting activities and prolonged gripping such as driving, racket sports, golf or even prolonged computer work for example.

It believed that micro-tears in the muscle and/or tendon might contribute to the inflammation and pain which is experienced.

What are the symptoms/effects of Tennis Elbow?

Symptoms of Tennis elbow may include one or more of the following:

Tenderness and pain on the outside of your elbow
Occasionally you may experience swelling around the elbow
Increased pain on extending the forearm, wrist and prolonged gripping
At times pain may spread down the forearm.

Physiotherapy treatment for Tennis Elbow

Our Physiotherapists here at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic are highly experienced at treating Tennis elbow and the aim of physiotherapy treatment is to reduce your pain and facilitate your recovery through specific rehabilitation and self-management.

Physiotherapy treatment at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic may include: