Tennis elbow in office workers: what it means

Tennis elbow, also called lateral elbow tendinopathy, involves tissues attached near the outside of the elbow. Office work may keep the wrist extended, require a firm mouse grip, or involve long periods of keyboard and trackpad use. Carrying a laptop, opening jars, or repeated hand tasks can add load. Pain may spread down the forearm and become noticeable when lifting a mug, shaking hands, or turning a key. The symptom pattern can fit tennis elbow, but neck nerve irritation and other elbow conditions can feel similar.

Keep the mouse and keyboard close, let the shoulders relax, and aim for a neutral wrist rather than holding it bent upward. Alternate tasks, take brief movement breaks, and use the lightest grip that lets you work accurately. Reduce painful lifting temporarily, but avoid keeping the elbow completely still. Physiotherapy can tailor strengthening for the wrist and forearm and help adjust work technique. A brace or other treatment may be appropriate after an examination.

Seek prompt care after a fall, a sudden tearing sensation, major swelling, or abrupt loss of grip strength. Arrange an assessment if pain persists despite workplace changes, disrupts sleep, or is accompanied by numbness, tingling, neck pain, or weakness in the hand. A clinician can check whether the pain is coming from the elbow, tendon, neck, or another structure.

Could my workstation or hand technique be contributing? Which movements should I alter first? Would a brace, physiotherapy, or a graded strengthening plan suit my symptoms?