Does physiotherapy treat tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow, also called lateral elbow tendinopathy, affects the tendons that help extend the wrist and fingers on the outer side of the elbow. Gripping, lifting, typing or repeated wrist movement may make it sore. A physiotherapist checks grip strength, wrist movement, shoulder and neck contribution, and the tasks that reproduce pain. Treatment may include education, temporary activity changes, manual techniques, and a staged programme for wrist and forearm loading. Improving shoulder control and work or sport technique can reduce repeated strain. The aim is better strength and use of the arm, not simply short-term pain relief.

Reduce heavy gripping and repeated wrist extension for a while, then reintroduce those tasks gradually. Use the exercise plan regularly and keep the elbow moving gently. A physiotherapist can help adjust a keyboard, tool handle, racket technique or lifting method when those activities contribute to symptoms. If pain is not improving, reassessment can check whether the diagnosis or treatment plan needs changing.

Get prompt medical assessment after a fall, a sudden tearing sensation, major swelling, deformity, marked weakness or inability to move the elbow. Seek review for fever, a hot red joint, numbness that travels into the hand, or pain that steadily worsens at rest.

Ask which movements are safe, how to judge exercise tolerance, whether a brace could help a specific task, and what symptoms would point to a nerve or joint problem instead.