Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, is one of the most common causes of elbow pain among adults. It develops when repetitive arm and wrist movements cause tiny tears and inflammation in the forearm tendons that attach to the outer elbow. According to orthopedic research, up to 3% of the population experiences tennis elbow each year, especially those who use their hands and arms for work or sports.
Dr. Brian Kelly, an experienced orthopaedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Sewickley and Moon Township, Pennsylvania, provides comprehensive care for elbow pain and overuse injuries. With expertise in elbow surgery, tendon repair, and minimally invasive treatment, Dr. Kelly helps patients recover mobility, relieve pain, and return to their active lifestyles. If you are struggling with elbow pain or stiffness, schedule an appointment today to receive personalized treatment.
In this article, we’ll explore the six key warning signs of tennis elbow, how repetitive motions cause the condition, and when to seek professional care from an elbow specialist.
1. Persistent Pain on the Outer Side of the Elbow
The most common symptom of tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow, the area where the forearm tendons attach to the bony bump called the lateral epicondyle. This pain may start as mild soreness but can progress to sharp discomfort that radiates down the forearm and wrist.
This is the main tennis elbow pain location patients describe during clinical evaluation. Pain often worsens with activities like gripping, shaking hands, or lifting objects. If the discomfort persists for more than a few weeks despite rest, it’s a clear sign to consult an orthopaedic specialist for early management before tendon damage worsens.
2. Weak Grip Strength and Difficulty Lifting Objects
If you find it hard to hold a coffee mug, shake hands, or lift your phone, you might be experiencing one of the earliest signs of tennis elbow. The tendons responsible for wrist extension and grip become inflamed, leading to weakness and fatigue in the forearm.
Over time, untreated weakness can cause functional limitations, especially in athletes, tradespeople, and office workers who rely on repetitive arm use. Dr. Kelly emphasizes that timely diagnosis helps prevent chronic strain and supports faster recovery with targeted physical therapy or bracing.
3. Pain That Worsens With Repetition or Wrist Movement
Tennis elbow is a repetitive stress injury. Activities like typing, painting, gardening, or racquet sports can strain the same tendon repeatedly. As the injury progresses, pain starts earlier during activity and lasts longer afterward.
Patients often ask, “What does tennis elbow feel like?”
Clinically, it’s described as a burning, aching, or stabbing pain around the lateral elbow, often aggravated by gripping or twisting motions. Without rest and intervention, microtears accumulate, making tendon healing more difficult.
4. Stiffness and Tenderness Around the Elbow
Morning stiffness or tenderness when straightening the arm can also signal developing tendon inflammation. Over time, inflammation around the joint limits the range of motion and makes bending or extending the elbow uncomfortable.
Ignoring stiffness may lead to scar tissue formation, which restricts mobility and prolongs recovery. Conservative care, such as RICE therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) and physical therapy, is most effective when initiated early.
5. Radiating Pain Into the Forearm or Wrist
Tennis elbow can cause pain that spreads beyond the elbow joint. This occurs because the same forearm muscles that control wrist movement are attached to the affected tendon.
Radiating pain or numbness down the arm may mimic other conditions like nerve compression or arthritis, which is why a professional diagnosis is essential. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRI, help rule out other causes and confirm the presence of lateral epicondylitis.
If your elbow pain radiates down to your hand or wrist, seek evaluation from a sports medicine specialist to avoid further complications.
6. Pain That Disrupts Daily Activities or Sleep
One of the clearest warning signs that tennis elbow requires medical attention is when pain starts interfering with your normal activities, or even your rest. Difficulty sleeping due to elbow discomfort, or being unable to perform routine tasks like typing or lifting groceries indicates that inflammation has become chronic.
Dr. Kelly’s approach focuses on early intervention to prevent chronic tendon degeneration and to promote full functional recovery through both conservative and advanced treatment options.
How Repetitive Motion Causes Tennis Elbow
Repetitive wrist and arm motions, especially when combined with poor ergonomics, can overstrain the extensor tendon, leading to microscopic tears and inflammation. While the name “tennis elbow” suggests a sports-related condition, it affects anyone who frequently uses their hands for gripping or lifting.
High-risk groups include:
- Office workers who type or use a mouse for long hours.
- Carpenters, painters, and mechanics.
- Musicians or fitness enthusiasts.
- Athletes involved in racquet or throwing sports.
Over time, if the tendon doesn’t heal properly, pain and stiffness become chronic, limiting daily performance and overall mobility.
Risks of Ignoring Tennis Elbow Symptoms
Delaying treatment for tennis elbow can lead to significant long-term issues. When the tendon continues to tear without rest or therapy, scar tissue forms, reducing flexibility and strength.
Untreated tennis elbow can cause:
- Chronic pain and inflammation may persist for months or years.
- Loss of grip strength and limited arm function.
- Degenerative tendon changes require surgical correction.
- Compensatory strain injuries in the shoulder, wrist, or neck due to altered movement.
Seeking care at the first signs of pain prevents these complications and allows for a quicker, non-surgical recovery.
When to Seek Professional Care for Elbow Pain
You should schedule an evaluation with a sports medicine specialist if you experience:
- Persistent pain lasting longer than two weeks.
- Pain that worsens during or after activity.
- Difficulty gripping or extending the arm.
- Numbness, tingling, or swelling around the elbow.
At his Sewickley and Moon Township offices, Dr. Brian Kelly performs detailed physical examinations and imaging to confirm diagnosis and create a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs and lifestyle.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow in Pittsburgh, PA
Dr. Kelly offers a comprehensive range of evidence-based treatments designed to relieve pain and restore full function. These include:
Conservative (Non-Surgical) Treatments
- RICE Therapy: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation to reduce inflammation.
- Activity Modification: Avoiding repetitive or aggravating movements.
- Physical Therapy: Strengthening and stretching exercises for the forearm and wrist.
- Bracing or Splinting: Supports the elbow while tendons heal.
- Anti-inflammatory Medications: NSAIDs or corticosteroid injections to manage pain and swelling.
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms persist after 6–12 months of conservative therapy, tennis elbow surgery (lateral epicondyle release) may be recommended. The goal is to remove damaged tissue, restore blood flow, and promote healing. Dr. Kelly specializes in minimally invasive and arthroscopic techniques, which reduce recovery time and improve long-term outcomes.
After surgery, patients begin structured rehabilitation to regain flexibility, strength, and confidence in daily activities.
Start Your Recovery Journey Today
Tennis elbow may start as a minor irritation, but it’s a condition that demands attention. Recognizing the six warning signs early and seeking expert care from a trusted orthopaedic specialist like Dr. Brian Kelly ensures a faster, more complete recovery, so you can regain strength, motion, and confidence in every movement.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about treatment for tennis elbow and other sports injuries, call (412) 262-7800 or Book An Appointment today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does tennis elbow feel like?
It typically causes burning or aching pain in the outer elbow, especially when gripping or lifting.
Where is tennis elbow pain located?
Pain is felt on the outer side of the elbow and may radiate down the forearm.
Can tennis elbow heal on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but persistent pain requires professional care to prevent chronic injury.
How long does it take to recover from tennis elbow?
Recovery varies, but most patients improve within 6 to 12 weeks with proper treatment.
Is surgery always necessary for tennis elbow?
No. Surgery is only recommended when conservative treatments fail after several months.
