Tennis Elbow

Written by Dr. Jason Ngan, DC

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow (aka lateral epicondylitis) is an overuse injury of the lateral elbow (thumb side). The muscle tendon effected is the extensor carpi radialis brevis.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow is caused by excessive use of the forearm, especially gripping.

  • Sports that use racquets (tennis)

  • Construction (hammering)

  • Needle crafts

  • Carrying heavy items

What are the Signs and Symptoms?

  • Pain or burning sensation at the lateral elbow (thumb side)

  • Pain upon twisting and bending the arm

  • Stiffness

  • Swelling at the elbow

  • Weak grip

How is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?

Tennis elbow is diagnosed with a thorough medical history, physical examination, orthopedic testing, and diagnostic ultrasound.

  • Muscle weakness.

  • Abnormal sensation (pain, burning, numbness).

  • Orthopedic tests narrows down which muscle is affected.

  • Diagnostic ultrasound can visualize the affected tendon.

What are the Treatment Options?

Tennis elbow can be treated with rest. There are some therapies that can speed up the recovery process. Some options we provide are

  • Chiropractic manipulation and mobilization

  • Brace

  • Soft tissue therapies

  • Gua-sha

  • Cupping

  • E-stim

  • Ultrasound

  • Ergonomic counseling

  • Rehabilitative exercises & stretches

Other treatments that patients may seek (not provided at Ngan Chiropractic) include acupuncture, non-inflammatory medications, steroid injection, and surgery if severe.  

References

  1. Cutts S, Gangoo S, Modi N, Pasapula C. Tennis elbow: A clinical review article. J Orthop. 2019 Aug 10;17:203-207. doi: 10.1016/j.jor.2019.08.005. PMID: 31889742; PMCID: PMC6926298.

  2. Gliedt JA, Daniels CJ. Chiropractic treatment of lateral epicondylitis: a case report utilizing active release techniques. J Chiropr Med. 2014 Jun;13(2):104-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jcm.2014.06.009. PMID: 25685118; PMCID: PMC4322013.

  3. Vaquero-Picado A, Barco R, Antuña SA. Lateral epicondylitis of the elbow. EFORT Open Rev. 2017 Mar 13;1(11):391-397. doi: 10.1302/2058-5241.1.000049. PMID: 28461918; PMCID: PMC5367546.