How to Treat Tennis Elbow

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a type of tendinitis that occurs when the tendons connecting your forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow become irritated or inflamed. Although the condition’s name suggests it only affects people who play tennis, it can develop from any activity involving repetitive motion, such as typing, painting, or using tools.

Those with tennis elbow often report aching, tenderness, or sharp pain in the outer elbow that can radiate down the forearm and into the wrist. The discomfort may worsen when you grip objects or extend your arm. A proper diagnosis usually includes a detailed physical exam, discussion of your symptoms, and sometimes imaging to rule out other causes of elbow pain.

Treating Tennis Elbow: Ice or Heat Therapy?

One of the most common questions patients ask is whether to use ice or heat for tennis elbow. Both approaches can be helpful, depending on where you are in your recovery process.

• Ice therapy: Applying ice is generally most beneficial during the early stages of injury or after activities that aggravate your elbow pain. It helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pressure around the tendon, which can relieve pain and slow further tissue irritation. Use a cold pack for 15–20 minutes several times a day, making sure to protect your skin with a thin cloth.
• Heat therapy: Once the initial inflammation subsides, heat can improve blood flow and help relax tight muscles in the forearm. Heat therapy can also be soothing before physical therapy or exercises, helping prepare the muscles and tendons for gentle stretching and movement.

For some people, alternating between ice and heat, sometimes called contrast therapy, can support the healing process by managing both swelling and stiffness.

What Are Other Treatment Methods for Tennis Elbow?

In addition to heat and cold therapy, there are several other effective methods to treat tennis elbow and relieve elbow pain.

1. Rest and Activity Modification

Allowing your tendon to recover is often the first step in treating tennis elbow. Reducing or adjusting activities that cause stress on the forearm, especially repetitive gripping, twisting, or lifting, can prevent the condition from getting worse. However, complete inactivity for too long can weaken muscles, so a guided approach from a physical therapist or hand therapist is recommended.

2. Physical Therapy and Exercises

Physical therapy focuses on strengthening and stretching the forearm muscles to promote healing and prevent future injury. Gentle exercises and massage techniques can enhance blood flow, support damaged tissue repair, and improve flexibility. Your therapist may also teach you how to use a brace or strap to reduce pressure on the affected area during activity.

3. Pain Relievers and Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or other anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve tennis elbow discomfort and decrease swelling. In some cases, your doctor may recommend prescription options or targeted injections for additional relief.

4. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Other Treatments

Advanced treatments such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may help stimulate the body’s natural healing response. PRP involves using your own blood, concentrating its platelets, and injecting them into the damaged tissue to promote regeneration. Some patients also benefit from procedures that remove damaged tissue using specialized needle techniques under ultrasound guidance.

5. Surgery

When non-surgical options don’t sufficiently relieve pain or restore function, surgery may be considered. The procedure typically aims to remove damaged tissue, reduce tension on the affected tendon, and restore normal motion. Contrary to popular belief, surgery is not always a “last resort”. For some, it may be the most effective way to heal and return to sports or daily activities. An experienced orthopedic surgeon can help determine whether this step is appropriate for your situation.

Taking the Next Step In Your Tennis Elbow Treatment

If your tennis elbow pain has not improved with home remedies or you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, it may be time for a professional diagnosis. A physical exam from an orthopedic surgeon, physical therapist, or hand therapist can help identify the exact source of your pain and create a personalized treatment plan.

At Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow, our specialists evaluate how your forearm, wrist, and elbow function together and tailor care to your activity level. Through evidence-based therapies and advanced interventions, our goal is to help you recover safely and efficiently.

Start Your Recovery from Tennis Elbow Today

Persistent tennis elbow pain doesn’t have to limit your ability to work, play tennis, or enjoy your favorite sports. With proper diagnosis, expert care, and a guided treatment plan, many patients experience significant improvement in both comfort and mobility.

If you’re ready to take the next step toward relieving pain and improving your recovery, contact Georgia Hand, Shoulder & Elbow in Marietta or Atlanta, GA, today. Our team of dedicated orthopedic surgeons, hand therapists, and physical therapists is here to help you restore strength, comfort, and confidence in your arm and elbow.