By Mary Guyette, DPT – Tri-Rehab, Inc.
If you’re dealing with nagging pain on the outside of your elbow, you might have lateral epicondylitis—better known as tennis elbow. While athletes are at risk, this condition affects many people who perform repetitive arm movements, from office workers to tradespeople.
In this post, we’ll break down the basics of tennis elbow, how to treat it, and how Tri-Rehab can support your recovery.
What Is Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)?
Lateral epicondylitis is a painful condition caused by inflammation of the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. These tendons connect at a bony bump called the lateral epicondyle.
Despite the name, you don’t have to play tennis to suffer from it. Any activity that overuses the wrist and forearm can lead to this condition.
Common Causes of Tennis Elbow
Activities That Can Trigger Tennis Elbow
Tennis or racquet sports
Typing or using a mouse extensively
Carpentry or construction work
Painting, knitting, or repetitive hand tasks
Using tools or lifting with poor wrist mechanics
Repetitive strain leads to tiny tears in the tendon, which causes inflammation and pain over time.
Tennis Elbow Symptoms
You may be dealing with tennis elbow if you experience:
Classic Signs Include:
Pain or tenderness on the outer elbow
Discomfort when lifting or gripping objects
Pain with wrist extension or raising your hand
Pain radiating down the forearm or into the upper arm
Weak grip strength or soreness when shaking hands, typing, or opening jars
How Is Tennis Elbow Diagnosed?
At Tri-Rehab, your evaluation starts with a thorough history and movement assessment. Your provider may:
Ask about your work, hobbies, and recent activity
Perform targeted movement tests to reproduce your symptoms
Recommend imaging, like an X-ray, if needed to rule out other issues
Tennis Elbow Treatment Options
Fortunately, most cases respond well to non-surgical treatment. At Tri-Rehab, we offer a customized recovery plan that may include:
Self-Care at Home
Ice packs for 20–30 minutes, 3–4x/day
Ice massage using a frozen paper or Styrofoam cup
Avoiding aggravating activities or modifying how you move
Wearing a tennis elbow brace to reduce tendon strain
Professional Care
Physical therapy (strengthening, stretching, manual therapy)
Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation (when appropriate)
Surgery, in rare and severe cases
Recovery Timeline and Expectations
Healing time varies depending on the severity of your injury and how long symptoms have been present.
General Guidelines:
Mild cases: a few weeks with rest and therapy
Moderate to severe: up to 6 weeks or longer
Chronic cases: several months or more
💡 Continuing to aggravate the tendon will delay recovery. Rest and proper rehab are key.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities?
You’re likely ready to resume full activity when:
You can grip objects forcefully without pain
Your elbow has full range of motion
Your strength matches your non-injured arm
Activities like typing, lifting, or playing sports are pain-free
Your physical therapist at Tri-Rehab will help guide this process and ensure it’s safe to return.
How to Prevent Tennis Elbow
Prevention Tips from Our Team:
Use proper form during sports or repetitive tasks
Stretch and warm up your arms before activity
Ice your elbow after extended use
Make ergonomic adjustments at your workstation
Use the right tools and equipment, like racquets with proper grip size
Why Choose Tri-Rehab for Tennis Elbow Recovery?
At Tri-Rehab, we specialize in personalized physical therapy programs to help you recover faster, prevent recurrence, and return to what you love—pain-free.
Whether you’re an athlete, an artist, or an office worker, we’ll tailor your treatment plan to your goals and lifestyle.
Call us today in Dearborn or Canton to schedule your evaluation and take the first step toward lasting relief.
