Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Treatment That Actually Works

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is one of the most common causes of elbow and forearm pain—and despite the name, you don’t have to play tennis to get it. This condition affects anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles: office workers, tradespeople, golfers, gym-goers, and weekend warriors alike.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is a degenerative condition (tendinosis, not true inflammation) of the common extensor tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle—the bony bump on the outside of your elbow. The extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon is most commonly affected. Repetitive wrist extension and gripping cause microtears in the tendon that fail to heal properly, leading to chronic pain.

Symptoms

• Pain on the outside of the elbow, often radiating down the forearm • Pain worsened by gripping, lifting, turning a wrench, or shaking hands • Weakness in grip strength • Pain with resisted wrist extension (bending the wrist back against resistance) • Tenderness directly over the lateral epicondyle • Symptoms that have lasted weeks or months—this is typically a chronic condition by the time patients seek care

Treatment Options

Activity Modification and Bracing A counterforce brace (forearm strap) worn just below the elbow can reduce tendon loading during activities. Modifying grip techniques and using ergonomic tools helps reduce stress on the tendon.

Physical Therapy

Eccentric strengthening exercises are the cornerstone of treatment. These involve slowly lowering a weight with the wrist (eccentric wrist extension), which stimulates tendon remodeling and healing. A structured therapy program over 6–12 weeks is effective for the majority of patients.

Corticosteroid Injection

Steroid injections provide short-term relief (weeks) but studies have shown they do not improve long-term outcomes and may actually delay healing. I use them selectively— primarily for patients with severe pain who need short-term relief to participate in therapy.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) Injection

PRP involves drawing your blood, concentrating the platelets, and injecting them into the damaged tendon. The growth factors in platelets may promote tendon healing. Evidence is growing that PRP produces better long-term outcomes than corticosteroid injections for chronic tennis elbow, though it is not covered by all insurance plans.

Surgery

Surgery is considered for patients who have failed 6–12 months of comprehensive nonsurgical treatment. The procedure involves debriding (removing) the damaged portion of the ECRB tendon and allowing healthy tissue to heal in its place. Success rates are approximately 85–90%.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does tennis elbow take to heal? Most cases resolve with conservative treatment within 6–12 months. The condition can be stubborn, but patience and consistent therapy pay off. Should I stop exercising? You don’t need to stop exercising entirely, but you should modify activities that aggravate your symptoms. I can help you identify specific modifications so you stay active while allowing the tendon to heal. Is tennis elbow the same as golfer’s elbow? No. Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the inside of the elbow. Both are treated by hand surgeons.

Elbow Pain Relief in Phoenix

If elbow pain is interfering with your work, sports, or daily life, I can help. From initial evaluation through injection therapy and, if needed, surgery, I provide comprehensive tennis elbow care for patients across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, and the entire Valley.

☎ Schedule Your Consultation

Call (602) 258-4788 or visit toddrichardsmd.com to book an appointment with Dr. Todd Richards. Most insurance plans accepted. Same-week appointments often available.