ROMMER
Condition

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

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What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is an overuse injury that develops when the forearm extensor muscles, which attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle), are damaged through excessive use. As the name suggests, it is common among tennis players, but computer users, musicians, painters and people in occupations requiring manual dexterity are also frequently affected. Typical symptoms include pain on the outer side of the elbow and forearm, difficulty gripping and weakness.

Causes of Tennis Elbow

  • Repetitive wrist extension and gripping movements
  • Use of a racket or tool with incorrect technique
  • Sudden increase in activity
  • Weakness and reduced flexibility in forearm muscles
  • Inappropriate equipment (heavy or stiff racket, wrong grip size)

Tennis Elbow Treatment at ROMMER

The vast majority of tennis elbow cases heal without surgery with correct conservative treatment. The programme at ROMMER includes:

  • Load Management and Activity Modification: Activities that trigger pain are identified and the load is gradually reduced; controlled loading is preferred over complete rest.
  • Eccentric and Isometric Exercises: An exercise programme that strengthens and stimulates healing of the extensor muscle-tendon junction is applied.
  • Manual Therapy: Elbow and wrist mobilisation, soft tissue techniques and myofascial release relieve pain and movement restrictions.
  • ESWT (Shockwave Therapy): In chronic cases, high-energy sound waves stimulate remodelling in tendon tissue.
  • Taping and Epicondylitis Brace: Kinesio taping or a special elbow brace is used to reduce the load on the lateral epicondyle.
  • Technique and Equipment Assessment: For athlete patients, movement technique and equipment suitability are evaluated and corrections are made.

What to Do in Chronic Tennis Elbow?

In chronic cases that do not respond to 6 months of conservative treatment, PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma) injection or surgical options are considered. At ROMMER, the most appropriate treatment plan is determined in coordination with orthopaedics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does tennis elbow resolve on its own?+
Mild cases may resolve with rest and load reduction within weeks. However, in cases that become chronic (longer than 3 months), recovery without rehabilitation is very slow and the risk of recurrence is high.
Is cortisone injection effective in tennis elbow?+
It may provide short-term pain relief, but has a lower long-term success rate compared to rehabilitation. It is not recommended alone; it should be evaluated alongside rehabilitation.
Can I continue to play tennis?+
If the pain is mild, playing can continue with technique corrections and equipment changes. In cases of severe pain, temporary activity restriction and rehabilitation are required.
How long does recovery take?+
In acute cases, 6–12 weeks may be sufficient. Chronic cases can take 3–6 months. Regular exercise and load management are the most important factors determining the recovery process.

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