From the Guidelines
Tennis elbow pain is primarily located on the outside (lateral side) of the elbow, specifically at the bony bump called the lateral epicondyle where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bone. The pain often radiates down the forearm toward the wrist and can extend up toward the upper arm. This condition, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, results from overuse or repetitive strain that causes small tears in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow, as noted in a review of common overuse tendon problems 1. While the name suggests it affects tennis players, it can develop in anyone who performs repetitive gripping activities. Some key points about tennis elbow include:
- It is seven to 10 times more common than medial epicondylosis, according to 1
- It involves the dominant arm 75 percent of the time, as reported in 1
- Activities that require repetitive wrist extension contribute to the development of lateral epicondylosis, as discussed in 1 The pain typically worsens with activities that involve wrist extension or gripping, such as shaking hands, turning doorknobs, or lifting objects. Initial treatment usually involves rest, ice application for 15-20 minutes several times daily, over-the-counter pain relievers, and avoiding activities that aggravate the pain for at least 2-3 weeks to allow healing.
From the Research
Location of Tennis Elbow Pain
- Tennis elbow pain is typically located at the lateral aspect of the elbow, around the common extensor origin 2, 3.
- The pain is often associated with localized tenderness at the lateral epicondyle, which is the bony bump on the outside of the elbow 3.
- The exact location of the pain can vary, but it is generally felt on the outside of the elbow, near the area where the extensor muscles attach to the bone 2, 4.
- The pain can also radiate down the forearm, especially when the wrist is extended or the elbow is straightened 4.
Characteristics of Tennis Elbow Pain
- Tennis elbow pain is often described as a dull ache or sharp pain, especially when the wrist is extended or the elbow is straightened 2, 4.
- The pain can be exacerbated by activities that involve repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting, such as tennis, golf, or heavy lifting 2, 4.
- The pain can also be triggered by direct pressure on the lateral epicondyle, such as when leaning on the elbow or applying pressure to the outside of the elbow 3.