Overview
About Tennis Elbow Treatment
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is caused by repetitive strain and micro-tearing of the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the outer elbow — common in racket sports, manual labour, and even repetitive computer use. Most cases respond well to a structured conservative approach: activity modification, a forearm brace, eccentric strengthening physiotherapy, and anti-inflammatory measures. For pain that persists beyond 6–8 weeks of conservative care, a steroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection accelerates healing. Surgery is rarely needed and reserved for the small minority who fail extensive non-surgical treatment.
Key Benefits
Stepwise approach resolves over 90% of cases without surgery
Eccentric strengthening physiotherapy addresses the root cause, not just symptoms
PRP injection option promotes genuine tendon healing for stubborn cases
Forearm brace provides immediate symptomatic relief during daily activities
Quick return to work, sport, and grip-dependent tasks
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to play tennis to get tennis elbow?
No — despite the name, tennis elbow most often affects people who perform repetitive gripping or wrist motions at work, such as painters, plumbers, and computer users, rather than tennis players specifically.
How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
With consistent physiotherapy and activity modification, most cases improve significantly within 6–12 weeks. Some persistent cases take several months, especially if the strain-causing activity continues unchanged.
What is an eccentric strengthening exercise?
It is a specific type of exercise that lengthens the forearm tendon under controlled load while it is in a strengthening phase. This particular loading pattern has the strongest evidence for healing tendinopathies like tennis elbow.
Is a brace helpful for tennis elbow?
Yes — a counterforce brace worn just below the elbow reduces strain on the injured tendon during daily activities, providing meaningful symptom relief while the tendon heals.
When is PRP injection recommended over steroid?
PRP is generally favoured for tennis elbow because it promotes actual tendon healing rather than just reducing inflammation, with effects that build over weeks and tend to last longer than a steroid injection.