What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. It commonly develops from repetitive arm, wrist, or gripping motions and can affect athletes, workers, and active individuals alike.
Tennis elbow affects the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle—the bony bump on the outside of your elbow. These tendons help control wrist and hand movement. Overuse or repeated stress can cause small tears in the tendon, leading to pain, weakness, and reduced function.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained elbow specialists provide personalized treatment plans to relieve pain, restore strength, and help you return to work, sports, and daily activities.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
- Pain or tenderness on the outside of the elbow
- Pain that worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting motions
- Weakness in the hand, wrist, or forearm
- Discomfort when shaking hands or turning a doorknob
- Pain with repetitive wrist or arm movements
Causes & Risk Factors
Tennis elbow is typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse. You don’t have to play tennis to develop this condition.
- Repetitive gripping or wrist extension
- Racquet sports, weightlifting, or throwing activities
- Occupational strain from construction, plumbing, painting, assembly work, or computer use
- Improper technique during sports or exercise
- Poor conditioning or muscle imbalance
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation by a fellowship-trained elbow specialist. This may include:
- Physical examination of the elbow, wrist, and forearm
- Assessment of strength and range of motion
- Review of your symptoms, activity level, work demands, and sports history
- Imaging such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI, when needed
Our goal is to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other causes of elbow pain such as arthritis, nerve irritation, or ligament injuries.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of tennis elbow can be treated without surgery. Your customized plan may include:
- Activity modification and rest
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles
- Bracing or counterforce straps
- Ergonomic adjustments for work or sports
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to support tissue healing
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms continue despite conservative treatment, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options focus on removing damaged tendon tissue and repairing the tendon to restore strength and function. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize downtime and support a safe recovery.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery time depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach.
- Mild cases may improve within weeks
- Moderate cases may take several months with therapy
- Surgical recovery typically includes structured rehabilitation
Our team works closely with you to support a safe and effective return to work, sports, and daily activities.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Whether your elbow pain is mild or more advanced, our team is here to help you get back to living with less pain and better function.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, your care is led by fellowship-trained physicians who focus exclusively on their area of expertise. This specialized approach allows for more accurate diagnoses and more personalized treatment recommendations.
- Dedicated elbow and upper extremity specialists
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Coordinated care across multiple orthopedic specialties
- Convenient locations in Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for tennis elbow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to heal tennis elbow?
Rest, physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification are often the fastest ways to reduce symptoms. Early treatment can help prevent symptoms from becoming more persistent.
Can tennis elbow go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but ongoing pain usually requires guided treatment to fully heal and reduce the risk of recurrence.
How is tennis elbow different from golfer’s elbow?
Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inside. Both are overuse injuries, but they involve different tendon groups.
Do I need surgery for tennis elbow?
Most patients do not need surgery. Surgery is typically considered only when symptoms continue after several months of non-surgical treatment.
When should I see a specialist?
If your elbow pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens, or interferes with work, sports, or daily activities, it is best to seek evaluation from a specialist.