Condition · Tennis Elbow · Buford GA
Lateral epicondylitis is overload of the tendons that attach the forearm extensors to the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, only a fraction of cases come from tennis. Pickleball is now the leading source we see. Most cases respond in 6 to 12 weeks of consistent conservative care.
Tennis elbow is overload of the common extensor tendon at the outside of the elbow. Mature cases involve degenerative changes (epicondylosis) more than active inflammation. The fix is soft-tissue work plus a graded eccentric loading program that rebuilds the tendon. Bracing helps as a bridge. Cortisone usually does more harm than good.
Treatment
We don't generally recommend cortisone. Save it for cases that have failed conservative care.
/01 /01 Release
ART or Graston on the forearm extensors, the lateral epicondyle attachment, and surrounding tissue. Often produces same-visit pain reduction.
/02 /02 Laser
For stubborn cases, low-level laser supports tendon recovery between visits. Usually added at week 3 to 4 if response has plateaued.
/03 /03 Load
Slow tempo wrist extension eccentrics with progressive load. The eccentric work is what actually rebuilds the tendon. Done at home, daily.
/04 /04 Modify
Bracing during play, grip changes, racket or paddle weight, sometimes a temporary break. We'll tell you what to modify.
FAQ
What is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is overload of the tendons that attach the forearm extensor muscles to the outside of the elbow. Despite the name, only a fraction of cases come from tennis. Pickleball, painting, lifting, computer mouse use, and any activity with repetitive wrist extension or gripping can cause it.
How long does it take to heal?
Most cases improve in 6 to 12 weeks with consistent conservative care. Stubborn cases over 6 months can take longer. Returning to full load too fast is the most common cause of recurrence.
Will a brace fix it?
A counterforce brace can reduce pain during the recovery period and let you keep working or playing. It doesn't fix the underlying tissue problem.
Should I get a cortisone shot?
Cortisone reduces pain in the short term but research shows it can produce worse long-term outcomes for tennis elbow because it weakens the tendon. We don't generally recommend it.
What's the best treatment?
A combination of soft-tissue work, Erchonia laser when indicated, and a graded eccentric loading program. The eccentric work is the part that actually rebuilds the tendon.
A 60-minute new-patient evaluation. We'll show you the eccentric program and tell you exactly what to modify in your play during recovery.