How long does a cortisone injection take to work for tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow affects the tendons that attach forearm muscles near the outside of the elbow. Cortisone can calm local inflammation and pain, while a local anaesthetic may act earlier and briefly. Neither effect instantly restores tendon capacity. If gripping, wrist extension, or repeated tool use continues to overload the area, symptoms may return when activity increases, even if the injection initially feels helpful.

Reduce painful gripping and lifting while the elbow settles. Follow the prescribed programme for forearm and wrist movement, then build resistance gradually rather than jumping back to sport, manual work, or racquet practice. Keep loads close to the body and use breaks during repetitive tasks. A counterforce strap or wrist support may be suggested for selected activities, but it should not replace rehabilitation advice.

Contact the clinic if pain is worsening, the injection site becomes increasingly red or swollen, or you develop fever. Seek urgent help for breathing difficulty or facial swelling. Book a review if gripping remains weak, symptoms spread beyond the usual outer-elbow area, or the agreed recovery window passes without meaningful improvement.

Ask which tasks to pause, how to progress strengthening, whether a support is appropriate, how to judge tendon load, and what other diagnosis should be considered if symptoms persist.