Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is a painful condition affecting 2-3 percent of Americans every year. But most instances of tennis elbow occur far from the court, having nothing to do with volleys, returning a serve, or hitting a backhand. Plumbers, butchers, carpenters, painters, and many more are at risk of developing tennis elbow due to repetitive stress.

Exciting new trends in sports medicine are changing how we treat tennis elbow for athletes and all those who struggle with this painful condition. Where surgery was once the primary remedy, despite causing increased pain, tissue damage, and risks of complications, today, we have better, less damaging treatments. Regenerative medicine therapies, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC), provide targeted relief without the drawbacks of surgery.

Today, we recognize “tennis elbow” as a common, repetitive stress injury that affects millions on and off the court. Discover what causes lateral epicondylitis, how emerging treatments can help, and the best ways to prevent it.

What is Tennis Elbow? 

While tennis has long been considered a rich man's sport, tennis elbow does not discriminate. Lateral epicondylitis is a repetitive strain injury caused by the overuse of the tendons in your forearm. Repetitive motions such as painting, chopping meat, swinging a tennis racket or golf club, using tools, or even typing can inflame these tendons or cause tiny tears where they attach to your outer elbow (lateral epicondyle).

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain or burning in your outer elbow
  • Weak grip strength
  • Difficulty with daily tasks like lifting or even shaking hands.

If left untreated, tennis elbow can lead to chronic pain and decreased mobility. Early diagnosis and treatment can help you get back to enjoying the activities you love without the burden of pain.

The Rise in Non-Athletic Cases

As medicine evolves, tennis elbow is increasingly recognized as a repetitive stress injury caused by a wide range of repetitive tasks — not just swinging a racket.

Though tennis elbow affects just 1-3% of our population, that translates to 3.35 to 10 million Americans annually. For those living with tennis elbow, the pain and limitations can feel overwhelming. Although fully 50% of tennis players experience lateral epicondylitis, they make up just 5% of all cases.  Most cases occur in people whose daily lives involve repetitive motions, such as typing, painting, carpentry, plumbing, knitting, playing an instrument, gardening, or using tools.

Recognizing this broader view of tennis elbow and who is affected has increased awareness of emerging treatments such as regenerative therapies like PRP.

Trends in Sports Medicine for Tennis Elbow

With its emphasis on getting elite athletes back into action, sports medicine often leads the way in developing innovative pain relief and recovery treatments. Tennis elbow surgery causes too much damage and requires too lengthy a recovery to be suitable for professional athletes. New, natural, and non-invasive therapies are benefitting athletes and office workers alike.

For some, focused physical therapy can strengthen the forearm and elbow, improve flexibility, and reduce the strain on tendons, relieving pain. It also teaches proper biomechanics to prevent re-injury.

For more severe cases, non-surgical regenerative therapies support and accelerate the body's natural healing:

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP): Derived from your blood, PRP delivers concentrated growth factors directly to the injured tissues, speeding healing and reducing inflammation.
  • Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate (BMAC): Rich in tissue-regenerating components from your bone marrow, BMAC promotes natural tissue repair.
  • Shockwave Therapy: High-energy sound waves are used to stimulate blood flow, accelerate healing, and reduce pain.
  • Wearable Biofeedback Devices: These tools track posture and movement, complementing other therapies by helping patients correct their biomechanics and repetitive motion habits to prevent re-injury.

These innovative, non-invasive regenerative treatments for tennis elbow are no longer reserved for elite athletes. Whether swinging a racket, lifting a wrench, or crafting your next project, these therapies can help you heal and regain your strength.

Lifestyle Modifications for Tennis Elbow Prevention and Recovery

Small changes can make a big difference in preventing and recovering from tennis elbow:

  • Start using ergonomic tools, like a supportive keyboard, wrist rests, or an easy-grip hammer to reduce strain. 
  • Consider investing in wearable biofeedback devices to provide real-time feedback on your posture and biomechanics to help you avoid repetitive stress injuries.  
  • Incorporate wrist and forearm stretches, such as wrist extensor stretches, and strengthening exercises with resistance bands to build back tendon resilience.
  • Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks to rest your muscles and tendons. Just five minutes every half hour can make a significant difference.

Making these simple adjustments a habit promotes long-term arm health, reduces strain and helps to prevent tennis elbow.

 

Key Takeaways: Your Path to Pain-Free Living

Recovering and preventing tennis elbow requires understanding the condition and making practical changes. Here are the key points to remember:

  • Tennis elbow isn't just for athletes: Repetitive movements in daily life, like typing or lifting, can put you at risk.
  • Innovative non-surgical treatments are available: Options such as PRP and BMAC offer non-invasive, effective recovery solutions.
  • Lifestyle changes are critical: Ergonomic tools, regular stretching, and short breaks can prevent tennis elbow and air recovery.
  • Small steps lead to big results: Modern treatments and daily habits can help you achieve long-term relief and an improved quality of life.

With modern solutions and simple lifestyle adjustments, you can leave pain behind and focus on what matters most!