Tennis elbow

Tennis elbow

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Our experienced team treats elbow injuries and pain so you can return to daily activities as quickly and safely as possible.
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylalgia, is a common condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow. It results from overuse and repetitive strain of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the bony bump (lateral epicondyle) on the outside of the elbow.

Despite the name, tennis elbow affects not only tennis players but anyone who repeatedly uses their wrist and arm, such as gardeners, plumbers, or office workers.
Tennis elbow treatment at West Coast Physio

Common causes of tennis elbow

Tennis elbow typically develops due to:

  • Repetitive wrist extension and gripping activities
  • Overuse or sudden increase in activity intensity or duration
  • Poor technique or ergonomics during tasks
  • Weakness or imbalance in forearm muscles
  • Poor equipment or tool use, such as an inappropriate tennis racquet grip

How we can help treat tennis elbow

Our physiotherapy approach for tennis elbow is based on the latest research and tailored to your individual needs, aiming to reduce pain, restore function, and prevent recurrence.

Comprehensive Assessment

We identify the specific muscles and tendons involved, assess your movement patterns and ergonomic factors contributing to symptoms.

Progressive Exercise Therapy

Evidence strongly supports the use of progressive loading exercises for the wrist extensors and forearm muscles to promote tendon healing and improve strength.

Research shows that eccentric and heavy slow resistance training effectively reduces pain and improves function (Coombes et al., 2016).

Manual Therapy and Pain Relief

Manual therapy techniques may be used to reduce pain and improve mobility in the short term, usually combined with active rehabilitation.

Short-term benefits shown when combined with exercise (Bisset et al., 2006).

Ergonomic and Activity Modification Advice

We provide guidance on modifying daily tasks, improving technique, and adjusting equipment or workspace to reduce strain on the elbow.

Education and Self-Management

Understanding your condition and actively participating in rehabilitation improves outcomes and reduces reliance on passive treatments.

Physiotherapy for tennis elbow: FAQs

Tennis elbow is a type of tendinopathy, which means overload or irritaton of a tendon. Overusing your forearm muscles, like gripping or repetitive twist movements, can lead to tennis elbow

Areas We Serve

If you think you might have tennis elbow, consult one of our physiotherapists at West Coast Physiotherapy Centre.

Book an appointment today!

We provide physiotherapy services to clients with tennis elbow across the Perth northern suburbs. Some of the most common areas we serve include:

Doubleview, Scarborough, Innaloo, Woodlands, Wembley Downs, Churchlands, Karrinyup, Gwelup, Osborne Park, City Beach, Floreat, and Trigg.

If you're located nearby and looking for expert tennis elbow care, we're just a short drive away.

Additionally, we provide expert and specialist physiotherapy care to many clients who live in Perth and regional Western Australia – your rehabilitation is our priority and many of our clients are prepared to drive further to receive quality care.