Tennis Elbow is one of the most common causes of outer elbow pain, affecting not only athletes but also office workers and individuals involved in repetitive hand activities. Despite its name, most people who develop this condition have never played tennis.
It typically develops due to repetitive strain on the forearm muscles, especially those responsible for wrist extension. Over time, this repeated stress leads to small tendon injuries, resulting in pain, weakness, and reduced functional capacity.
At Asia Digital Physiotherapy Orthopedic & Rehabilitation Center (ADPORC), Tennis Elbow is treated using structured, evidence-based physiotherapy programs under the supervision of Dr. Saddam Hossain, PT, focusing on pain reduction, tendon healing, and restoration of strength and function.
What Is Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)?
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is a musculoskeletal condition involving pain and degeneration of the tendons that attach the forearm extensor muscles to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.
It is primarily an overuse injury caused by repetitive wrist extension and gripping activities. Unlike acute injuries, it develops gradually and can become chronic if left untreated.
Functionally, it leads to reduced grip strength, pain during lifting, and difficulty performing daily tasks.
Anatomy
The lateral epicondyle of the humerus serves as the origin for the forearm extensor muscles, including:
- Extensor carpi radialis brevis (most commonly involved)
- Extensor carpi radialis longus
- Extensor digitorum
- Extensor carpi ulnaris
These muscles are responsible for wrist extension and stabilization during gripping activities.
Pathophysiology
Tennis Elbow is not purely inflammatory. It is primarily a degenerative condition (tendinosis).
- Repetitive overload leads to microtrauma
- Failed healing response results in collagen disorganization
- Tendon becomes weak and painful
- Reduced load tolerance leads to chronic symptoms
This results in chronic pain, weakness, and reduced functional performance over time.
Common Signs and Symptoms
- Pain on the outer side of the elbow
- Tenderness over the lateral epicondyle
- Pain during wrist extension
- Weak grip strength
- Difficulty lifting objects
- Pain during gripping activities
- Discomfort while typing or using a mouse
- Pain radiating toward the forearm
- Stiffness in the elbow
- Increased pain with repetitive hand use
If symptoms persist or worsen with activity, early physiotherapy intervention is essential to prevent chronic tendon damage.
Common Causes
- Repetitive wrist extension movements
- Improper sports technique (tennis, badminton, cricket)
- Prolonged computer or mouse use
- Manual labor involving tools
- Poor ergonomics
- Sudden increase in activity level
- Weak forearm muscles
- Lack of warm-up before activity
- Overuse in daily tasks
- Age-related tendon degeneration
How Tennis Elbow Is Diagnosed
Physical Examination
- Tenderness over lateral epicondyle
- Pain on resisted wrist extension
- Pain during gripping
Special Tests
- Cozen's Test
- Mill's Test
- Maudsley's Test
Investigations
- X-ray to rule out bony pathology
- Ultrasound for tendon condition
- MRI in chronic or unclear cases
Physiotherapy Treatment Components
- Assessment
Movement analysis, load tolerance testing, functional limitation assessment - Pain Control
Advanced electrotherapy modalities when clinically indicated; activity modification strategies - Manual Therapy
Soft tissue release; joint mobilization techniques - Exercise Therapy
Eccentric strengthening of wrist extensors; progressive tendon loading program - Movement Correction
Ergonomic correction for daily activities; technique correction for sports or work tasks - Prevention
Education on load management; long-term activity modification
Surgery (if applicable)
Surgery is rarely required and considered only in long-standing cases where conservative treatment fails. It involves removal of degenerated tissue and tendon repair.
Comparisons: Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow
| Feature | Tennis Elbow (Lateral) | Golfer's Elbow (Medial) |
|---|---|---|
| Pain location | Outer elbow | Inner elbow |
| Muscle group | Extensors | Flexors |
| Painful movement | Wrist extension | Wrist flexion |
| Common population | Office workers, athletes | Manual workers, golfers |
Home Advice and Prevention
- Avoid repetitive strain
- Take regular breaks during work
- Maintain proper ergonomic posture
- Use correct technique in sports
- Warm up before activity
- Gradually strengthen forearm muscles
Home Exercises You Can Try
- Wrist Extensor Stretch: Extend your arm and gently bend your wrist downward using the opposite hand
Benefit: Reduces muscle tightness and improves flexibility - Wrist Extension Exercise: Hold a light weight and lift your wrist upward slowly
Benefit: Strengthens extensor muscles - Eccentric Wrist Exercise: Slowly lower your wrist after lifting a weight
Benefit: Promotes tendon healing - Grip Strengthening: Squeeze a soft ball slowly
Benefit: Improves grip strength - Forearm Rotation Exercise: Rotate your forearm with light resistance
Benefit: Enhances functional control
Perform 10-15 repetitions, twice daily, strictly under the guidance of a physiotherapist to avoid overuse or incorrect movement patterns.
When to See a Physiotherapist (Visit ADPORC)?
- Pain lasting more than 2-3 weeks
- Difficulty gripping or lifting
- Increasing pain with activity
- Reduced daily functional ability
Delaying treatment may lead to chronic tendon damage and prolonged recovery.
Why Asia Digital Physiotherapy Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center (ADPORC) Is a Trusted Physiotherapy Center in Dhaka
ADPORC focuses on evidence-based physiotherapy for musculoskeletal, neurological, and sports-related conditions.
- Expert Care by Dr. Saddam Hossain, PT
Structured rehabilitation under experienced clinical supervision. - Condition-Specific Physiotherapy Programs
Treatment plans designed according to assessment, pain stage, and functional goals. - Advanced Electrotherapy and Rehabilitation Equipment
Modalities used only when clinically indicated. - One-on-One Supervised Sessions
Direct supervision ensures safety and effectiveness. - Accessible Location in Jatrabari, Dhaka
Serving Jatrabari, Dholaipar, Shonir Akhra, Doyagonj, Puran Dhaka, Keraniganj, and Narayanganj.
If you are looking for reliable Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) physiotherapy in Dhaka, ADPORC provides structured, goal-oriented rehabilitation trusted by local patients.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Do not let pain limit your daily life. Take the first step toward effective recovery with professional physiotherapy care.
Visit ADPORC and see why patients from Jatrabari and surrounding areas including Dholaipar, Doyagonj, Shonir Akhra, Saydabad, Jurain, Hasnabad, Puran Dhaka, Keraniganj, and Narayanganj trust us as a reliable physiotherapy center in Jatrabari, Dhaka-1204.
- Location: 270/1 Dholaipar, South Jatrabari, Dhaka-1204
- Call: 01950-935236
- Website: adporc.com
Asia Digital Physiotherapy & Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center