What Are the First Signs of Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow commonly presents with pain around the bony outside of the elbow. The discomfort may travel into the forearm and become more noticeable when turning a handle, lifting a cup, typing, using tools or shaking hands. Grip strength can feel reduced because gripping brings tension to the irritated tendon. The problem can develop without playing tennis and may follow repeated wrist or forearm work. Similar symptoms can come from other conditions, so location and movement pattern are useful but not diagnostic by themselves.

Notice which tasks provoke symptoms and break them into shorter periods. Keep the wrist in a relaxed, neutral position where possible, and avoid repeatedly testing the painful grip. Gentle movement is usually preferable to complete rest, but exercises should be progressed gradually. A clinician may recommend [Exercise Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/exercise-therapy/) or [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) after assessing the elbow and neck.

Book an assessment if pain limits work, sleep, lifting or hand use, or if it is not settling after activity changes. Seek prompt care after a significant injury, when the elbow is hot and swollen, or when numbness, persistent tingling or marked weakness affects the arm. A clinician can distinguish tendon pain from nerve, joint or bone problems.

Which movement is stressing the painful area? Could the neck or a nerve be contributing? What level of gripping and lifting is appropriate? How should I pace a rehabilitation plan, and when would another option such as [Shockwave Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/shockwave-therapy/) be discussed?