Ever felt a stubborn ache on the outside of your elbow and wondered, “Is this tennis elbow?” You’re in good company—most people don’t play tennis, but sports aside, it’s a surprisingly common condition. Knowing what’s triggering that pain and how to handle it early makes all the difference. At Total Health Rehab, we’ve helped dozens overcome this exact issue—and we’ve got your back too.

Understanding the Anatomy: How Tennis Elbow Happens

“Tennis elbow” (medically known as lateral epicondylitis) involves tiny tears in the tendons that attach forearm muscles to the bony bump (lateral epicondyle) on the outside of your elbow. These tears usually happen from repetitive stress—not just swinging a racket, but from many day-to-day activities (holding a phone, cooking, typing…).

When those forearm muscles get overworked, the tendons can’t keep up—triggering inflammation, micro-tears, and that nagging pain you feel. It’s like a rope fraying from constant wear.

Common Causes of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow doesn’t pick its victims by sport. Here’s why it might show up:

Overuse & Repetition

• Racket sports: Tennis, squash, racquetball
  
• Work tasks: Painting, plumbing, gardening, carpentry
  
• Daily habits: Repetitive typing, texting, carrying heavy bags
  

Structural & Health-Related Factors

Age, joint issues, and muscle stiffness can increase stress on the tendons and make them more susceptible to damage.

Medical Conditions & Nerve Involvement

• Arthritis or nerve irritation near the elbow can mimic or worsen symptoms.
  
• Less common—but worth noting—cervical radiculopathy (a pinched nerve in your neck) can sometimes refer pain to the elbow region.

Recognizing Tennis Elbow: Diagnosis You Can Do at Home (But See a Pro)

If you’re trying to figure out whether it’s tennis elbow, here are a few steps:

1. Self-assessment test
   Sitting with your elbow straight and palm down, attempt to extend your wrist upward against light resistance. If it hurts on the outer elbow, that’s a classic sign.
   
2. Check your daily habits
   Do activities like opening jars, typing, or lifting groceries flare up the pain?
   
3. Know the red flags
   
   • Sharp, sudden pain
     
   • Numbness or tingling in your arm or hand
     
   • Trouble gripping or any weakness
     If you experience these, seek medical attention right away—they may signal something more serious.
     

Professional Diagnosis & Total Health Rehab’s Approach

At Total Health Rehab, our evaluation includes:

1. A detailed conversation about your symptoms and daily routine
   
2. Physical tests targeting the tendons and muscle function
   
3. Rule-out imaging or tests if we suspect other causes
   

This ensures we have a precise diagnosis before tailoring your recovery plan.

Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

Home-Based Remedies

• Rest & ice: Cool the area for 10–15 minutes every few hours
  
• Activity modification: Put daily repetitive tasks on hold or modify how you perform them
  
• Over-the-counter anti‑inflammatories (e.g., ibuprofen) can help ease the pain
  

Physical Therapy & Professional Care

• Stretching & strengthening exercises targeting the forearm muscles
  
• Manual therapy techniques like deep-tissue massage or myofascial release
  
• Ultrasound or laser therapy to stimulate healing
  

Medical Interventions (When Needed)

• Bracing or supportive straps to unload pressure from the tendon
  
• Injections—like corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP)—in stubborn cases
  
• Referral for imaging or possible surgery, though rare, when tendon tears are large or symptoms persist beyond a few months
  

Prevention Tips: Keep Tennis Elbow from Coming Back

Strength & Mobility Exercises

• Eccentric wrist curls
  
• Pronator/supinator rotations
  
• Flexibility routines for forearm, elbow, shoulder, and wrist
  

Ergonomic Adjustments

• Use proper posture, supportive chairs, and armrest setups
  
• Choose tools with ergonomic grips—especially for frequent use
  

Smart Habits

• Warm up before repetitive or athletic activities
  
• Gradually increase workload or intensity—whether racket time or typing sprees
  

Why Choose Total Health Rehab for Tennis Elbow Care

At Total Health Rehab, our focused approach includes:

• One-on-one attention from trained professionals
  
• A blend of sports rehab, manual therapy, exercise-based treatment, and real-world prevention
  
• Tailored recovery—whether you’re a weekend warrior, desk-bound pro, or full-time parent
  

Ready for Relief? Contact Total Health Rehab Now

Don’t let tennis elbow keep you from daily comfort and full activity. Call Total Health Rehab today and start on a custom recovery and prevention plan designed just for you.