Understanding Tennis Elbow: Symptoms, Causes & the Role of Sports Physio Treatment

Tennis elbow, medically referred to as lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition isn’t limited to tennis players—it can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles. Whether you’re a tradesperson, office worker, or athlete, understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options—especially through sports physio treatment—is vital for effective recovery.

What Are the Symptoms of Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow symptoms can develop gradually and often worsen over time. Typical signs include:

  • Elbow pain: Usually felt on the outer part of the elbow, ranging from a dull ache to sharp, shooting pain.
  • Grip weakness: Difficulty with everyday tasks such as holding a coffee cup, shaking hands, or turning a doorknob.
  • Tenderness and stiffness: Especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
  • Pain with activity: Particularly noticeable during twisting motions or repetitive arm use.
  • Radiating discomfort: Pain may travel from the elbow down to the forearm and wrist.

While these symptoms are common, a diagnosis by a physiotherapist or healthcare professional is essential to rule out other conditions and ensure appropriate treatment.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is primarily caused by repetitive strain or overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. This overuse leads to small tears (microtrauma) in the tendon that attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. Risk factors include:

  • Frequent lifting of heavy objects (over 45 pounds/22 kg)
  • Age over 40
  • Obesity or high BMI
  • Smoking
  • Engaging in sports or occupations requiring repetitive arm motions

Common sports associated with tennis elbow include:

  • Tennis, squash, pickleball, racquetball
  • Baseball and softball
  • Golf
  • Weightlifting

Occupations and hobbies at risk:

  • Painters, plumbers, carpenters
  • Chefs, musicians, cleaners, gardeners
  • Manicurists or beauticians

How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

A physiotherapist will typically assess your symptoms, conduct physical tests, and evaluate your range of motion and pain response. Diagnosis may include:

  • Palpation of the elbow to identify tenderness
  • Resistance tests to reproduce symptoms
  • In some cases, imaging (e.g., ultrasound or MRI) to confirm tendon damage

Why Sports Physio Treatment Is Essential

If you’re based in Greater Manchester or nearby, seeking a sports physio in Manchester can significantly accelerate your recovery. Sports physiotherapists are trained to treat musculoskeletal injuries with a tailored, evidence-based approach.

Treatment Strategies Used by Sports Physios:

  1. Range of Motion (ROM) Exercises
    Gentle movements help maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness in the joint.
  2. Strengthening Exercises
    These target the forearm extensor muscles to rebuild stability and function.
  3. Pain Management Modalities
    Use of heat, ice, TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), or ultrasound therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
  4. Shockwave Therapy
    A non-invasive treatment that stimulates healing through high-energy sound waves—shown to be effective for chronic tendon injuries (Speed et al., 2002).
  5. Manual Therapy
    Includes soft tissue massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilisations to improve movement and reduce pain.
  6. Neuromuscular Re-education
    Helps restore coordination between nerves and muscles, improving elbow function.
  7. Functional & Sport-Specific Training
    Prepares patients to return to their sport or job safely and reduces the chance of reinjury.

Why Visit a Sports Physio or Physiotherapist?

Visiting a physiotherapist ensures you receive a customised treatment plan based on your injury, lifestyle, and recovery goals. Here’s what to expect:

  • Tailored Rehabilitation: Addressing your specific needs, whether you’re a tennis player or a tradesperson.
  • Expert Supervision: Ensuring exercises are performed correctly to avoid further injury.
  • Progress Monitoring: Adjustments are made based on recovery rate.
  • Preventive Guidance: Learn proper techniques and exercises to prevent recurrence.

In Manchester, qualified sports physiotherapists can provide these services in a clinic or through home-based care depending on your needs.

When to Seek Help

If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain that interferes with your daily life or sport, it’s advisable to book an Initial Consultation & Treatment with a qualified physiotherapist. Early intervention not only reduces recovery time but also prevents the condition from becoming chronic.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow may seem like a minor nuisance at first, but if left untreated, it can lead to significant pain and reduced function. A structured and personalised approach from a sports physio in Manchester can make all the difference. From pain management to strengthening and functional training, physiotherapy plays a central role in both recovery and prevention.

References

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