Tennis elbow doesn't just affect tennis players. Working at a cash register, carrying heavy loads, or even simple, repetitive everyday movements are enough to cause it.
How to recognize it, when to seek medical attention, and what really helps relieve the pain. Here’s a rundown.
Epicondylitis, or lateral elbow tendinitis, is an acute or chronic musculoskeletal disorder that affects the epicondylar tendons—those that attach to the outer side of the elbow. It is the leading cause of elbow pain in adults. Sometimes the inner side of the elbow is affected instead—the side of the epitrochlear muscles—in which case it is referred to as'epitrochleitis.
We commonly talk about inflammation, and that's the term everyone uses. Recent literature offers a more nuanced view: it is said to be more of a process of tendon degeneration, tendinosis, rather than classic inflammation (Ma and Wang, 2020). This distinction is not merely a matter of vocabulary: it explains why rest alone is not always enough, and why progressive muscle strengthening plays a central role in treatment.
This form of tendinitis is most often caused by excessive strain on the tendons of the elbow or by repeating the same movement involving the muscles of the arm and wrist. The condition is so common in tennis that it is commonly referred to as tennis elbow.
But the label is misleading. A French journal points out that epicondylitis develops often as a work-related condition, to the point that it has become a genuine public health issue (Lenoir et al., 2019). Repeated gripping and wrist extension are the most common causes, regardless of the context.
Tennis and weight training, but also working at a cash register or on an assembly line, doing DIY projects, and everyday tasks like beating egg whites until stiff.
Tighten, screw, carry. A grip strength Constant strain puts pressure on the epicondylar insertions.
Stiffness and weakness in the muscles of the arm and forearm increase the risk of injury.
The most characteristic symptom is pain at the outer elbow joint, which may radiate to the forearm and fingers or extend up to the shoulder. The pain becomes sharp when the arm is extended or when the forearm is rotated.
When the pain radiates down to the hand and wrist, other causes may be contributing or the symptoms may overlap, such as a tenosynovitis of the tendons in the hand. Only a clinical examination can help distinguish between the two.
Don't downplay this pain
If you experience these symptoms, you should consult a healthcare professional—such as a doctor, physical therapist, or osteopath—as soon as possible. Only a healthcare professional can make a diagnosis. The doctor may order an X-ray or an ultrasound to rule out other causes of elbow pain and check for any intra-tendinous tears or calcifications.
That's the question everyone asks, and the answer is quite reassuring: epicondylitis is described as a a condition that resolves spontaneously In the vast majority of cases, surgery is considered only for severe and refractory forms (Ahmed et al., 2022). However, this requires patience—often ranging from several weeks to several months—and a genuine adjustment to the movements involved.
Epicondylitis can often be avoided, whether you’re an athlete, a worker, or someone with a sedentary lifestyle. For athletes, a thorough warm-up before training, proper hydration, and equipment suited to one’s body type are recommended. For jobs involving repetitive tasks, the same principles apply: warm-up, regular breaks, and ergonomic tools.
The appropriate course of action depends on the severity of the injury and your individual circumstances, and your healthcare provider will guide you. As soon as the first symptoms appear, rest your elbow and avoid movements that could aggravate the injury. In addition, there are several simple steps you can take to help.
This is the cornerstone of nonsurgical treatment. Physical therapy reviews emphasize progressive strengthening—particularly eccentric exercises—combined with manual therapies and, in some cases, a support brace (Pathan and Sharath, 2023). This exercise should be performed under the supervision of a physical therapist rather than on your own.
Many people find relief by applying ice to their elbow. Place an ice pack wrapped in a cloth on the affected area for about 15 minutes, up to three or four times a day.
Massage with lemon eucalyptus or wintergreen essential oil is a common traditional practice used to treat tendonitis. Essential oils are not harmless: some are not recommended if you are taking blood thinners, have a salicylate allergy, are pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Ask your pharmacist for advice, and always test the oil on the inside of your elbow before applying it more widely.
From Class I medical devices that contain no medication: nothing penetrates the skin. They are based on patented technology eNOsyntex, which reflects toward the fabrics that are the far-infrared naturally produced by the body. This process supports the physiological production of nitric oxide and helps improve local microcirculation, which helps deliver oxygen and nutrients to the tissues and relieve pain. Details on how to use them on this area are described in our article dedicated to Epicondylitis and STIMCARE.
Where to apply the patches
The choice depends on the cause of the discomfort, not its intensity.
Sports-Related Pain
STIMCARE SPORT
Treatment Protocol for Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)
View the illustrated tutorial. Contains natural latex: not recommended for people with a latex or rubber allergy.
Disruption to work or daily life
STIMCARE ARTHRO
It is indicated for tendinitis
View the illustrated tutorial. Acrylic adhesive, latex-free.
1 to 3 patches, depending on the severity and location of the discomfort; repeat as needed. Protocols for other areas are detailed in the tutorials.
Sources
References from PubMed.
STIMCARE SPORT and STIMCARE ARTHRO are Class I medical devices with CE marking. Intended for adults. STIMCARE ARTHRO is intended to relieve joint pain, including osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and rheumatism. STIMCARE SPORT is intended for the temporary relief of muscle, joint, and ligament discomfort associated with sports activities. Read the package insert carefully before use. Not recommended during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. Do not apply to broken skin. These patches are not a substitute for medical advice: consult a healthcare professional if pain persists. Manufactured by TORTEL Industries, 2761 Les Rouvières, 26220 Dieulefit, France.
What is a Class I medical device? Find out why STIMCARE patches are classified as such and learn about the concrete benefits this classification offers you.
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