Tennis Elbow — Causes, Symptoms and When to See a Doctor

Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylalgia causes pain on the outer side of the elbow worsened by gripping.

What causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow can have many different causes ranging from minor to serious. The most common causes include repetitive forearm muscle use computer work manual labour sports racquet sports.

Identifying the specific cause of Tennis Elbow requires consideration of your other symptoms, medical history, medications, and a physical examination. This page provides general guidance but cannot replace a proper medical assessment.

Is Tennis Elbow serious?

Whether Tennis Elbow is serious depends entirely on the underlying cause. In most cases Tennis Elbow is caused by minor self-limiting conditions that resolve on their own. However certain accompanying symptoms should prompt prompt medical evaluation.

Tennis Elbow is more likely to be serious if it is severe, sudden, progressive, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Age also matters — the same symptom can carry different implications in a young healthy adult compared to an older person or someone with existing health conditions.

What does Tennis Elbow mean?

Tennis Elbow is your body signalling that something is happening that warrants attention. It could mean something as simple as muscle tension or dehydration, or it could indicate an underlying medical condition that needs treatment. The meaning of Tennis Elbow depends on its pattern, severity, duration, and accompanying symptoms.

How long does Tennis Elbow last?

Months average 6-24 months without treatment. The duration of Tennis Elbow varies significantly depending on the underlying cause. Symptoms caused by minor self-limiting conditions like viral infections typically resolve within days to weeks. Symptoms caused by chronic conditions may be ongoing and require long-term management.

If Tennis Elbow persists beyond what you would normally expect for a minor illness, it is worth seeking medical assessment to identify any underlying cause.

How to treat Tennis Elbow

Rest physiotherapy counterforce brace steroid injection shockwave therapy. The appropriate treatment for Tennis Elbow depends entirely on the underlying cause, which is why medical assessment is important for persistent or unexplained symptoms.

Self-care measures can help manage many causes of Tennis Elbow while awaiting medical assessment or for confirmed minor causes. However self-treatment should not replace medical evaluation for persistent, severe, or worsening symptoms.

Should I see a doctor about Tennis Elbow?

You should see a doctor if Tennis Elbow is severe, persistent for more than a few days without improvement, getting progressively worse, significantly affecting your daily life, or accompanied by any of the warning signs listed above.

For new unexplained symptoms particularly in adults over 50, medical assessment is generally recommended even if symptoms seem mild. Many conditions are much more easily treated when identified early.

• Keep a symptom diary noting when Tennis Elbow occurs, how long it lasts, and what makes it better or worse — this information is invaluable for your doctor
• Note any other symptoms that occur alongside Tennis Elbow even if they seem unrelated
• Make a list of all medications and supplements you take including over-the-counter products
• Think about recent changes — new medications, dietary changes, stress, travel, or exposure to illness
• Do not rely on internet searches alone for diagnosis — use this information to have a more informed conversation with your doctor
• If you are unsure whether your symptoms need urgent attention, call your local health advice line rather than waiting

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition. If you believe you have a medical emergency call your local emergency services immediately.