Tennis Elbow
Outer elbow pain is common in office workers, gym users, racket sports players and anyone who grips tools all day. Most cases are tendon load problems, but I check for the small number of patients where inflammatory arthritis or nerve issues are actually driving the pain.
What tennis elbow is
Tennis elbow usually refers to irritation of the tendons attached to the outer side of the elbow. It is linked to repeated gripping, lifting, twisting or wrist extension. The medical term is lateral epicondylitis or lateral epicondylalgia.
Symptoms to look out for
Pain or tenderness on the outer elbow
Pain gripping, lifting a kettle or shaking hands
Pain with twisting movements such as opening jars
Weak grip
Stiffness after rest
Why this matters to a rheumatologist
Most cases are tendon-related, but inflammatory arthritis should be considered if there is visible joint swelling, prolonged stiffness, warmth or multiple joints involved.
Signs I would like you to seek care for
For emergency symptoms please seek urgent or emergency care first rather than waiting for a WhatsApp reply.
Pain not improving after two weeks of self-care
Tingling, numbness or weakness
Hot swollen elbow or fever
Pain after a fall or injury
What a specialist review looks like
I examine the elbow, wrist and shoulder, check for tendon tenderness and joint swelling, then discuss movement changes, physiotherapy, splints, medication or injection options if appropriate.
Questions my patients often ask me
Speak with me
If your outer elbow pain is not settling with rest and self-care, or comes with joint swelling or other inflammatory symptoms, WhatsApp my clinic and we can help you decide whether a rheumatology assessment is the right next step.
Other conditions I treat
This page is for general education only and does not replace medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.