Tennis Elbow

Tennis Elbow Diagnosis in Los Angeles| California Sports and Rehab | Dr. Hakimian, Nerve Specialist in Los Angeles and Orange County

What is Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)?

Tennis Elbow, medically known as Lateral Epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury causing pain and inflammation on the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, you don’t have to play tennis to develop this condition. It’s often caused by repetitive wrist and arm motions—common in many sports, jobs, and daily activities.

At California Sport and Rehab, we specialize in diagnosing and treating tennis elbow to help you recover your strength and get back to your routine pain-free.

Causes of Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow happens when the tendons connecting your forearm muscles to the outside of your elbow are overused or strained, leading to tiny tears and inflammation.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive gripping, twisting, or swinging motions (not limited to tennis)

• Jobs that involve repetitive arm use, such as plumbing, painting, carpentry, and cooking

• Poor technique in sports like tennis or racket sports

• Frequent use of tools or a computer mouse

• Sudden injuries or strain (less common)

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Sharp or burning pain on the outer elbow

• Stiffness and swelling

• Weak grip strength—difficulty holding objects like a coffee cup or shaking hands

• Pain worsening with wrist extension or twisting motions (opening jars, turning doorknobs)

• Pain may spread from elbow down to forearm and wrist, often worse at night

Diagnosis at California Sport and Rehab

Our expert team uses a combination of:

• Thorough physical examination focused on your elbow and arm

• Patient history to understand your activities and symptoms

• Imaging tests such as X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI if needed

• Nerve studies like EMG in rare cases to rule out other conditions

Early diagnosis improves treatment success and speeds recovery.

Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on your elbow

• RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation to reduce inflammation

• Physical therapy with targeted stretching and strengthening exercises

• Bracing with wrist or elbow supports to offload tendons

• Over-the-counter pain relievers (NSAIDs or acetaminophen)

• Advanced therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or shockwave therapy

Surgical Treatment

Rarely needed, surgery may be recommended if symptoms persist after months of conservative care. The procedure removes damaged tendon tissue to promote healing.

Prevention Tips for Tennis Elbow

• Warm up and stretch before physical activities

• Use proper technique and equipment in sports and work

• Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks

• Strengthen forearm muscles with guided exercises

• Use ergonomic tools and wrist supports as needed

Why Choose California Sport and Rehab?

• Specialized care for sports injuries and repetitive strain conditions

• Personalized rehabilitation plans tailored to your needs

• Experienced physical therapists and orthopedic specialists

• State-of-the-art treatment options with compassionate care

• Convenient locations across California

Schedule Your Appointment Today

If you’re experiencing elbow pain, weakness, or difficulty performing everyday tasks, don’t wait! Early treatment of tennis elbow leads to faster, more complete recovery.

Call California Sport and Rehab at 310-652-6060 or book your appointment online for expert tennis elbow treatment in California.