Understanding Tennis Elbow: A Clinical Overview

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an injury caused by overuse of the arm. It happens when tiny tears develop in a tendon called the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), where it connects to the outside part of the elbow bone. 

This degenerative condition typically results in pain, inflammation, and impaired mobility in the lateral elbow (the outside of the elbow) and forearm. 

Despite its name, tennis elbow is not exclusive to athletes and can frequently affect individuals whose occupational or recreational activities involve repetitive wrist extension or gripping motions.


Common Causes, Risk Factors, & Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow typically develops due to cumulative trauma from overuse of the forearm extensor muscles. The condition may also be precipitated by acute trauma, such as a direct blow or a fall.



Populations commonly affected by tennis elbow include:

  • Tennis, racquetball, and pickleball players

  • Golfers (note: medial epicondylitis—golfer's elbow—affects the inner elbow)

  • Baseball and softball players

  • Musicians (e.g., violinists, drummers, pianists)

  • Manual laborers (e.g., carpenters, painters, electricians)

  • Culinary professionals

  • Mechanics and dental professionals

  • Office workers with repetitive typing and mouse use



Patients with lateral epicondylitis often present with:

  • Outside or lateral elbow pain that worsens with wrist extension or gripping

  • Stiffness and discomfort when bending or straightening the arm

  • Weak grip strength

  • A burning sensation localized to the outer elbow

  • Pain radiating into the forearm and wrist

  • Increased tenderness or swelling over the lateral epicondyle

  • Symptom exacerbation during rest or overnight



Conservative, At-Home Relief Strategies

Early intervention can mitigate the progression of tennis elbow. 



The following conservative strategies may help alleviate symptoms:

  • Ice treatment: Apply ice packs to reduce inflammation and dull pain (15–20 minutes, 3–4 times daily)

  • Compression and elevation: Utilize an elbow brace or compression sleeve to stabilize the joint while elevating the arm to manage swelling

  • Gentle stretching and self-massage: Targeted forearm stretches and myofascial release techniques can enhance flexibility and reduce muscular tension

  • Activity modification: Cease any movements that exacerbate pain to prevent further tissue damage


While these methods may provide temporary relief, persistent or worsening symptoms should be evaluated by an experienced chiropractor to ensure overall health and function. 


Chiropractic Management of Tennis Elbow in Elkhorn 

Chiropractic care provides a holistic, evidence-based approach to managing musculoskeletal injuries, including tennis elbow. Rather than merely masking symptoms, your local sports chiropractor will focus on biomechanical corrections and neuromuscular re-education to restore optimal function and promote long-term healing.

At our Elkhorn chiropractic clinic, we tailor care plans to each patient's unique needs, based on a comprehensive assessment of their posture, joint alignment, soft tissue health, and movement patterns.



Modalities we use to treat tennis elbow may include:

Dry needling can help alleviate tennis elbow by reducing muscle tension, enhancing blood flow, and promoting healing in the irritated tendon surrounding the elbow.


Myofascial release can relieve tennis elbow by loosening tight muscles and connective tissue around the elbow, reducing pain and improving mobility.

Rehabilitative exercises help with tennis elbow by strengthening the forearm muscles, improving flexibility, and promoting long-term healing and the prevention of future injuries.


Sports performance and recovery programs can enhance overall strength, optimize movement patterns, and support faster, more effective healing to prevent re-injury.


We Deliver a Holistic & Preventive Focus

Our chiropractic care extends beyond symptom relief. We educate patients on a range of topics, including ergonomics, proper lifting mechanics, postural correction, correct warm-ups and cool-downs, and functional stretching techniques, to promote overall well-being. 

These proactive measures aim to minimize future flare-ups and support sustainable musculoskeletal health.

Each patient undergoes a comprehensive initial evaluation, which includes various tests and screenings, such as movement analysis. Based on our findings, we develop a personalized recovery strategy tailored to your specific activity level, goals, and comfort level.


Take the First Step Toward Long-Term Elbow Health

If tennis elbow is interfering with your work, athletic performance, or quality of life, our experienced Elkhorn chiropractic team is here to help. We’re committed to providing patient-centered, holistic care that supports your body’s natural ability to heal, without the use of drugs or surgery.

Ready to restore strength, mobility, and comfort to your elbow?


Book with our Elkhorn sports chiropractor and receive an evaluation that sets your path to recovery in motion! 

Darcy Sullivan