Your care path

Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is an overuse condition of the tendons that attach to the outer bump of the elbow, which power wrist and finger extension. Despite the name, most people who get it are not tennis players, repetitive gripping, lifting, and computer or tool use are common triggers. It is one of the most frequent causes of elbow pain in adults.

  1. 1

    Recognize it

    Common signs of tennis elbow:

    • Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow
    • Pain with gripping, shaking hands, lifting a coffee cup, or turning a doorknob
    • Weak or painful grip
    • Aching that can radiate down the forearm
  2. 2

    Know when to act

    Tennis elbow is overwhelmingly a non-surgical condition, most cases improve with relative rest, activity modification, a counterforce brace, and a program of specific strengthening exercises. Recovery is often slow, commonly taking six months to a year, and patience genuinely is part of the treatment. A surgeon or sports medicine physician is worth seeing if significant pain persists beyond six to twelve months of committed conservative care, since a small minority of stubborn cases have procedural options.

    Sudden numbness, loss of bladder or bowel control, or inability to bear weight can be an emergency. Call 911.

  3. 3

    See the right specialist

    Tennis Elbow is treated by a elbow surgeon. Describe your symptoms and we'll match you to the best-fit surgeons near you.

  4. 3

    Prepare & book

    Bring the right questions and records so your visit counts. Our free tool builds you a personalized visit-prep sheet, then helps you book.

This is general guidance, not medical advice or a diagnosis. Always consult a licensed clinician. In an emergency, call 911.