What movements cause or exacerbate tennis elbow?

Movements That Cause Tennis Elbow

Activities that require repetitive wrist extension and flexion are the primary movements that cause or exacerbate tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). 1, 2

Common Causative Movements

• Repetitive wrist extension against resistance is the primary movement pattern that leads to tennis elbow, particularly in racquet sports and occupational activities 1, 3
• Twisting and gripping motions that engage the forearm extensor muscles frequently trigger or worsen symptoms 4
• Activities that simultaneously involve wrist and elbow extension during repetitive actions are particularly problematic 5
• Overuse of the common extensor tendon origin through repeated tensile loading can lead to tendon degeneration 6

Sport-Specific Movements

• Tennis and other racquet sports involve movements that commonly cause lateral epicondylitis, particularly with poor swing technique or heavy racquet use 3
• The "tennis backhand" motion places significant stress on the lateral elbow structures, especially with improper form 2
• Throwing motions that involve rapid extension and flexion of the elbow can contribute to tennis elbow development 6

Occupational Movements

• Work-related activities requiring repetitive gripping or lifting tasks are common causes of tennis elbow 3
• Use of heavy tools, especially those requiring wrist stabilization while the elbow is extended 3
• Occupations demanding repetitive forearm pronation and supination combined with wrist extension 1
• Computer mouse use and typing that involves sustained wrist extension 2

Biomechanical Factors

• Activities placing tensile load on the extensor carpi radialis brevis-extensor digitorum communis complex are particularly problematic 6
• Movements that cause microtrauma at the lateral epicondyle where the forearm extensor muscles originate 1
• Forceful gripping with simultaneous wrist extension creates significant stress on the common extensor origin 2

Warning Signs and Aggravating Movements

• Pain during activities that require stabilizing the wrist in extension while the elbow is straight 2
• Discomfort when lifting objects with the palm facing downward 5
• Pain exacerbated by shaking hands or opening doors 2
• Increased symptoms when using tools that require twisting motions 4

Movement Modifications to Reduce Symptoms

• Avoid activities that don't allow proper rest between repetitive wrist extension movements 2
• Modify gripping technique to reduce stress on the lateral epicondyle during daily activities 2
• Use proper ergonomics when performing occupational tasks requiring repetitive wrist movements 3
• Incorporate appropriate warm-up before activities that involve the problematic movements 2

Tennis elbow primarily affects adults aged 40 and older, involving the dominant arm 75% of the time, highlighting the role of repetitive use in its development 1. Understanding these causative movements is essential for both prevention and effective management of this common condition.