General information only. Not a diagnosis, and not a substitute for an assessment.

What is it?

Tennis elbow is pain on the outside of the elbow. It can spread down the forearm. It may hurt to grip, lift a kettle, open a jar or shake hands.

It happens when the tendons that join forearm muscles to the elbow get overloaded. A tendon is a strong cord that joins muscle to bone. Most people get better, but it can take a few months.

Common causes

Repeating the same wrist and arm movements, such as using a mouse, screwdriver or paintbrush
Lifting or gripping a lot more than usual
Racket sports, but most people with tennis elbow do not play tennis

When to get urgent help

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

you have very bad pain after a fall or injury, or you heard a snap or popping noise
your elbow has changed shape, or you cannot move it
your arm or hand is numb, tingling, blue or cold after an injury

Do not drive yourself to A&E. Ask someone to drive you, or call 999 for an ambulance.

Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

your elbow is hot, red or swollen, or you have a high temperature or feel unwell
you have numbness or tingling in your hand or fingers
the pain has not improved after a few weeks of looking after it at home

You can call 111 or get help from NHS 111 online.

How physio can help

Strengthening exercises — usually the most helpful thing for tendons
Advice on changing tasks so the tendon gets a chance to recover
Hands-on treatment or acupuncture, if it helps you
Advice on braces or supports

Everyone is different. We'll talk through what is likely to help you, and be honest if something else would suit you better.

What you can do at home

Rest from the activity that causes the pain, but keep using your arm for gentle everyday tasks.
Hold a cold pack wrapped in a towel on the area for up to 20 minutes, a few times a day.
Try lifting and gripping with your palm facing up.
A pharmacist can give you advice about pain relief.

Stop anything that makes your pain much worse, and get advice if you're not sure. Don't stop taking any medicine you've been prescribed without talking to your doctor or pharmacist.

Treatments that may help

Initial assessment — 50 minutes, £65
Follow-up physiotherapy — 40 minutes, £55
Acupuncture and dry needling — 40 minutes, £55