Tennis Elbow Treatment & Physiotherapy
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is pain on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm muscles — common in racquet sports, but also in office workers, painters and anyone with repetitive wrist movements.
Symptoms of tennis elbow
- Pain on the outside of the elbow
- Weak grip
- Pain when shaking hands or lifting a kettle
- Tenderness over the lateral epicondyle
Common causes
- Repetitive wrist extension (typing, painting, racquet sports)
- Sudden increase in activity volume
- Poor technique
- Weak shoulder/scapular muscles forcing forearm overuse
Treatment approaches
Most cases of tennis elbow respond very well to physiotherapy. Common modalities include:
Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques including joint mobilisation, soft tissue massage, myofascial release and trigger point therapy. Used to reduce pain, restore movement and break down adhesions in muscles and connective tissue.
Exercise Therapy
The cornerstone of modern physiotherapy. Progressive, individualised exercises restore strength, mobility and motor control — the only intervention proven to produce long-term changes in tissue and function.
Dry Needling
Fine needles inserted into trigger points to release tight muscle bands. Effective for chronic muscle tension, headaches, and stubborn pain that doesn't respond to massage alone. Different from acupuncture in approach and goal.
Electrotherapy
Modalities like TENS, ultrasound, IFT and laser used to reduce pain and inflammation, especially in the early stages of injury. Always combined with exercise — never used as a standalone treatment.
Related physiotherapy services
Frequently asked questions
- How long does tennis elbow take to heal?
- With targeted physiotherapy and load management, most cases improve in 6-12 weeks. Stubborn cases that have lasted over 6 months may take longer and benefit from eccentric loading protocols.