Tennis elbow – also called lateral epicondylitis – is a condition in which the tendons in your elbow are overloaded. The pain of this condition occurs where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow. You may also feel pain into your forearm and wrist.
Repetitive motions of the wrist and arm, which can occur while playing tennis, usually cause tennis elbow. However, other repetitive motions, such as those performed by plumbers, painters, carpenters, and butchers, can also cause tennis elbow.
The pain and weakness associated with tennis elbow can make it difficult for you to:
- Hold a coffee cup
- Shake hands or grip an object
- Turn a doorknob
Tests
Physical examination
Your doctor will conduct a complete physical examination and collect your health history to help make the diagnosis.
Imaging tests
Your doctor may recommend you take an over-the-counter pain medication – such as Motrin, Aleve, or Tylenol – to help manage related pain.
Treatments
Rest
You will need to avoid all physical activity involving the affected arm while it heals.
Pain medication
Your doctor may recommend you take an over-the-counter pain medication – such as Motrin, Aleve, or Tylenol – to help manage related pain.
Physical therapy
Your health care provider may prescribe rehabilitation therapy. Our physical therapists establish a unique plan of care that includes specific interventions for your condition and situation to help alleviate pain and improve mobility.
Surgery
If other treatments for tennis elbow are unsuccessful, your sports medicine doctor may recommend that you undergo surgery.
Why Choose the University of Miami Sports Medicine Institute?
World-class care in an academic health system. As a research and teaching institution, we treat children and adults with proven, leading-edge procedures based on clinical studies performed at the Miller School of Medicine. Our doctors, residents, nurses, and therapists work together to create healthy outcomes.
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