In short,

  • Tennis elbow causes pain and inflammation in the outer part of the elbow, often from repetitive arm and wrist movements.
  • The right specialist for evaluation and care depends on the severity of your symptoms and your activity level.
  • If you’re searching for tennis elbow treatment, understanding your options helps you choose the most effective care.

Understanding Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendons that attach to the outer elbow become inflamed due to overuse. Although it commonly affects tennis players, anyone who performs repetitive arm or wrist motions—such as typing, painting, or using hand tools—can develop this condition.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), tennis elbow is most common in adults between 30 and 50 years old. The pain may start gradually, becoming worse with gripping, lifting, or twisting movements.

Common Symptoms

  • Pain or burning on the outer elbow.
  • Weak grip strength.
  • Pain that worsens with wrist extension or lifting objects.
  • Discomfort that radiates down the forearm.

Mild cases may resolve with rest and basic treatment, but persistent or worsening pain should be evaluated by a medical professional.

Which Doctor Should You See for Tennis Elbow?

Doctors that you can see for pain in the elbow are:

Orthopaedic Specialist

An orthopaedic doctor is the primary specialist for diagnosing and treating tennis elbow. These physicians have expertise in the musculoskeletal system and can evaluate tendon, bone, and joint health. They may recommend imaging such as X-rays or ultrasound to rule out other injuries and assess tendon damage.

Orthopaedic specialists provide both nonsurgical and surgical options, including physical therapy, bracing, injections, and, in rare cases, tendon repair surgery.

Sports Medicine Physician

If your symptoms are related to athletic activity or repetitive strain from physical work, a sports medicine doctor can provide specialized guidance. These physicians focus on restoring function and preventing reinjury.

Treatment often includes targeted exercises, ergonomic adjustments, and activity modifications.

Physical Therapist

A physical therapist helps strengthen and stretch the muscles surrounding the elbow and forearm. Customized therapy can improve flexibility, reduce pain, and support long-term recovery.

Many patients notice improvement within a few weeks of consistent treatment.

Primary Care Provider

For mild cases, starting with your primary care physician is appropriate. They can assess your symptoms, prescribe initial treatments such as rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication, and refer you to an orthopaedic or sports medicine specialist if needed.

Nonsurgical Tennis Elbow Treatments

According to the Mayo Clinic, most cases of tennis elbow improve with conservative care. Your doctor may recommend:

  • Rest and Activity Modification: Reducing repetitive motions that aggravate symptoms.
  • Ice Therapy: Applying ice packs for 15–20 minutes several times daily.
  • Bracing: Using a forearm strap or wrist splint to reduce tendon strain.
  • Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles.
  • Medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to relieve pain and inflammation.

Injections such as corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) may be recommended if symptoms persist despite therapy.

When Surgery May Be Considered

Surgery is rarely necessary but may be an option for chronic or severe tendon damage that does not respond to nonsurgical care after six to twelve months. The procedure involves removing damaged tissue and reattaching healthy tendon fibers to restore strength and movement.

Your orthopaedic team will discuss all options to ensure you receive the most effective and minimally invasive care for your condition.

How to Prevent Tennis Elbow

  • Warm up and stretch before activity.
  • Maintain proper technique during sports or repetitive work.
  • Strengthen forearm and wrist muscles with guided exercises.
  • Take regular breaks from tasks requiring gripping or twisting.
  • Use ergonomic tools or equipment designed to reduce strain.

These preventive strategies can lower the risk of recurrence once symptoms have resolved.

When to Seek Medical Care

Schedule an appointment with a specialist if you experience:

  • Persistent elbow pain lasting more than two weeks.
  • Pain that interferes with work or recreational activities.
  • Weakness or reduced range of motion.
  • Swelling, redness, or numbness in the arm or hand.

Prompt evaluation prevents the condition from becoming chronic and ensures faster recovery.

Early treatment helps relieve pain faster, reduce inflammation, and restore proper tendon function. Seeking care promptly can also prevent long-term complications, such as chronic elbow stiffness or reduced grip strength, which may make everyday activities more difficult over time.

Tennis Elbow Treatment in Cary, NC

If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain or searching for tennis elbow treatment near me, our team at Cary Orthopaedics provides comprehensive, patient-centred care. We use evidence-based techniques to reduce pain, restore strength, and prevent future injury.

Call (919) 467-4992 to schedule a consultation and learn how personalized orthopaedic treatment can help you return to your normal activities comfortably and safely.