The detail shows the common extensor tendon attachment on the outside of the elbow and examples of small tendon injuries. Original English labels.
Tennis elbow causes pain at the tendon attachment on the outside of the elbow, mainly involving the wrist extensor tendons. It can develop without playing tennis and can interfere with everyday gripping and lifting.
A hot, markedly swollen elbow, fever, or new numbness and weakness should be examined promptly.
Causes and risk factors
Repeated or unusually heavy loading may play a role. Manual work, gardening, sport and other activities involving forceful gripping can trigger symptoms. They often develop over a longer period.
Typical symptoms
Pain when lifting a cup, shaking hands or extending the wrist against resistance is typical. The outer bony prominence is tender. Pain may spread into the forearm.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis can usually be made through discussion and a targeted examination. Nerve irritation and other elbow conditions are considered. Imaging is particularly useful for atypical findings, injury or a persistently unclear course.
Non-surgical treatment
Initially, particularly painful activities are adjusted. Graded exercises then help strengthen the forearm and wrist. A support may provide temporary help. Cortisone can relieve symptoms briefly, but possible unfavourable long-term effects mean it should not be treated as a routine solution without careful consideration.
Surgical options
Surgery is discussed only for significant, longstanding symptoms after conservative options have been exhausted. The additional benefit is not well established for every procedure. The diagnosis is reviewed again before a decision.
Aftercare and rehabilitation
Activity is rebuilt over weeks and months. Working methods and sporting technique should be adapted when needed. After surgery, individual wound-care and activity instructions apply. Gradually restoring the tendon’s load tolerance remains important.
Common questions
Do I have to play tennis to get it?
No. Work and everyday activities can also cause symptoms.
Does complete rest help?
Short-term unloading may ease symptoms. Appropriate, gradual loading is usually important for further recovery.
Arrange a consultation
We discuss which treatment is suitable for your findings and which procedures are available within our outpatient service during a personal consultation. Outpatient operations take place at an external surgical centre.
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Further reading
Selected external resources about this condition. Some linked publications are in German.
Medical background
Sources & further information
These professional and patient resources provide further information about this condition. The text on this page is independently written.
NHS: Tennis elbowIQWiG: Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow