Despite the name, only ~5% of patients with 'tennis elbow' actually play tennis. It's a degenerative tendon problem, not inflammatory — which is why steroid shots feel great for 6 weeks then make things worse.

Lateral elbow pain demonstration
Eccentric wrist-extensor loading is the evidence-based first-line treatment for lateral epicondylitis.

Modern evidence-based protocol

  1. Eccentric loading — slow lowering exercises, 3 sets of 15, twice daily for 12 weeks
  2. Counter-force brace during aggravating activity
  3. PRP injection if no improvement at 8-12 weeks (better long-term outcome than steroid)
  4. Topical NSAIDs rather than oral when possible
Surgery is rarely needed.