Worried about tennis elbow?

What is tennis elbow?

Tennis elbow causes pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, often from overuse of the forearm muscles. Despite the name, it's rarely caused by tennis — any repetitive arm movement (typing, gardening, using tools) can trigger it. Most cases settle within 6 to 12 months with rest, ice, and gentle exercises.

When NHS resources suggest seeing a GP

• Pain is severe or stopping you doing normal activities.
• Self-care has not improved the pain after 2 weeks of rest.
• Your arm or hand feels numb, tingly, or weak.
• The pain has lasted for several months without improvement.
• You have swelling, redness, or warmth around the elbow.
• You had a sudden injury or heard a snap at the elbow.

Self-care information from NHS

• Rest the affected arm and avoid the activity that caused the pain.
• Apply an ice pack (wrapped in a towel) for up to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours.
• Take over-the-counter pain relief as advised by a pharmacist.
• Use a forearm strap or brace worn just below the elbow to reduce tendon strain.
• Try gentle eccentric wrist strengthening exercises once the acute pain settles.
• Warm up before repetitive arm activities and take breaks during them.
• Adjust your workstation — keep the wrist neutral, avoid gripping hard for long periods.

Common questions