What it is
The muscles that extend and flex the forearm attach by tendons to two bony bumps at the elbow, the lateral and medial epicondyles. Repeated gripping, lifting and twisting can overload these tendons, leading to small tears and degeneration.
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the outside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the inside. Both are more accurately described as tendinopathy: a wear-related problem of the tendon rather than simple inflammation.
Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness over the bony bump on the outside or inside of the elbow
- Pain when gripping, lifting a mug or carrying a bag
- Pain that spreads into the forearm
- Weaker grip
- Stiffness or aching after activity
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is usually made from the history and an examination that reproduces pain with specific resisted movements. X-rays can rule out other causes. Ultrasound or MRI may be used if symptoms are not improving or the diagnosis is uncertain, and nerve irritation around the elbow is considered as part of the evaluation.
Treatment options
Non-surgical
- Relative rest and changes to technique, equipment or work tasks
- A counterforce brace or strap
- A physical therapy program focused on progressive tendon loading and strengthening
- Anti-inflammatory medication when appropriate
- Injections in selected cases; corticosteroid injections can relieve pain in the short term but may not provide lasting benefit
Surgical
- Surgery is reserved for symptoms that persist despite many months of dedicated non-surgical care.
- Tendon debridement and repair. Through a small open incision, the damaged tendon tissue is removed and, when needed, the tendon attachment is repaired.
Recovery
- Non-surgical care
Most people improve with non-surgical treatment, although it can take several months to a year.
- After surgery: first weeks
A short period of protection, then gentle motion.
- Strengthening
Progressive strengthening with a therapist, typically starting several weeks after surgery.
- Full recovery
Return to full activity and sport usually takes several months.
Timelines are typical ranges, not guarantees. Recovery depends on the specific injury, the procedure, your health and your rehabilitation, and your plan is individualized.
Questions patients ask
Do I need to stop playing my sport?
Usually not entirely. Modifying how often and how hard you play, and adjusting technique and equipment, often lets you stay active while the tendon recovers.
Will a brace help?
A counterforce strap can ease symptoms for some people during activity. It works best alongside a strengthening program.
Do injections cure it?
Corticosteroid injections can relieve pain in the short term, but they may not provide lasting benefit and are used selectively. Exercise-based therapy is the foundation of treatment.
This page is general patient education and is not a substitute for an in-person evaluation.