If you’re feeling pain on the outside of your elbow, you may wonder if it’s “tennis elbow.” The name can be misleading because many people who develop tennis elbow have never picked up a racket. This condition often arises from repetitive motions at work, home, or during exercise, and it can interfere with everything from gripping a coffee mug to turning a doorknob.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach near the outside of the elbow. These tissues can become irritated or strained from repeated motions, leading to pain and stiffness.
While tennis players are prone to this injury because of the repeated swinging motion, anyone who uses their hands and arms frequently can develop it. Desk workers, carpenters, painters, mechanics, and gardeners often experience tennis elbow. Even carrying laundry baskets or lifting children can sometimes trigger symptoms.
Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
Not all elbow pain is tennis elbow, but certain symptoms are strong indicators. You may notice:
- Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow
- Weakness when gripping or lifting objects
- Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning
- Increased discomfort with repeated wrist or arm motions
These symptoms can range from mild irritation to sharp, persistent pain that limits daily activities.
When It Might Be Something Else
Elbow pain can also result from other conditions such as arthritis, nerve compression, or ligament injuries. If your pain is accompanied by swelling, numbness, or difficulty moving your arm, it’s best to get evaluated by a professional.
How Physical Therapy Helps Tennis Elbow
The goal of physical therapy is not just to relieve pain but to address the source of irritation and reduce the chance of recurrence. At Bodyworks Physical Therapy in Fargo, we develop personalized programs that may include:
- Manual therapy to improve mobility and ease tension in the muscles and tendons
- Shockwave Therapy to jump-start your body’s natural healing response
- Targeted exercises to strengthen the forearm, wrist, and shoulder for better support
- Stretching routines to restore flexibility and reduce strain
- Ergonomic education for work or daily activities to prevent re-injury
- Gradual progression back to the tasks or sports you enjoy
By combining hands-on treatment with education, physical therapy empowers patients to manage symptoms and return to normal activities without relying solely on medication.
Shockwave Therapy in Tennis Elbow Treatment
Shockwave therapy is one of the most effective treatments we offer for stubborn or chronic tennis elbow. Shockwave therapy:
- Stimulates Healing: Shockwave therapy triggers your body to release bio-chemicals that improve blood flow and speed up tissue repair.
- Reduces Pain & Inflammation: The pulses help calm irritated tissues and reduce inflammation in the tendon.
- Breaks Up Scar Tissue: Chronic cases often involve adhesions or scar tissue, and shockwave therapy helps break these down to restore mobility.
- Non-Invasive Option: No needles, no surgery – just targeted treatment that works with your body’s natural healing process.
Many patients experience noticeable relief within just a few sessions, making shockwave therapy a powerful tool for long-term recovery.
Read more on what to expect during a shockwave therapy session.
Why Early Treatment Matters
Many people try to “push through” elbow pain, hoping it will improve on its own. Unfortunately, waiting too long can make the condition worse. When treated early, tennis elbow typically responds well to non-invasive approaches like physical therapy. Early treatment also reduces the risk of chronic pain or long-term limitations.
Other Joint Issues? You’re Not Alone
Elbow pain is just one of the common joint concerns we treat. Shoulder stiffness, including frozen shoulder, often develops in a similar way, limiting mobility and daily function. Whether it’s your shoulder, elbow, or another joint, our team focuses on restoring movement and reducing pain so you can stay active.
Take the Next Step Toward Relief
If elbow pain is limiting your work, hobbies, or daily life, you don’t have to keep living with it. Tennis elbow is common, but it’s also highly treatable with the right care.
At Bodyworks Physical Therapy, we provide expert orthopedic treatment tailored to your needs. Our team helps patients in Fargo and the surrounding area find relief and return to the activities they love.
Request an appointment today to get started with tennis elbow physical therapy in Fargo and take the first step toward lasting recovery.