Physical Therapy For Tennis Elbow  in River Forest & Oak Park

What Is Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)?

 

 

Tennis elbow is a degenerative tendinopathy of the common extensor tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. Modern research shows this condition is not primarily inflammatory, but rather a result of repetitive overload and micro-trauma to the tendon over time.

 

Because of this, treatments focused only on rest, injections, or braces often provide temporary relief rather than true healing.

​​​

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

 

Symptoms of tennis elbow may include:

 

• Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow

• Pain with gripping, lifting, or twisting motions

• Weak grip strength

• Discomfort with typing, using tools, or racquet sports

• Pain that gradually worsens over time

 

 

Symptoms may start subtly and become more persistent if not properly treated.

​​​

 

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

 

Tennis elbow is most often caused by repetitive stress to the forearm muscles and tendons. Common contributing factors include:

 

• Repetitive gripping or lifting

• Prolonged computer or mouse use

• Manual labor or tool use

• Racquet sports or golf

• Poor shoulder or scapular stability

• Cervical spine (neck) referral patterns

 

 

Many cases persist because underlying biomechanical issues are never addressed.

​

 

How We Diagnose Tennis Elbow

 

At River Forest Health & Wellness, diagnosis begins with a thorough clinical examination, not just a focus on the elbow.

 

Our assessment may include:

 

• Detailed history and activity analysis

• Elbow, wrist, and forearm examination

• Cervical spine screening to rule out referred pain

• Shoulder and scapular stability assessment

• Grip strength and endurance testing

• Repeated movement testing using McKenzie Method principles

 

 

Imaging such as X-rays or MRI is rarely required unless symptoms fail to improve or more serious pathology is suspected.

​​

​

Tennis Elbow Treatment at River Forest Health & Wellness

 

Our treatment approach is individualized and based on the severity, duration, and contributing factors of your condition.

 

McKenzie Therapy (MDT)

• Identifies directional preference and mechanical contributors

• Reduces nerve sensitivity and referred pain

• Restores pain-free motion and function

​

Therapeutic Exercise & Progressive Loading

• Isometric and eccentric tendon loading

• Forearm endurance and grip strengthening

• Shoulder and scapular stability training

• Gradual return-to-activity progression

​​

Manual Therapy

• Joint mobilization of the elbow, wrist, and shoulder

• Soft tissue techniques to improve tissue mobility and circulation

​

Dry Needling

• Reduces muscle guarding and pain

• Improves tendon loading tolerance

• Enhances local blood flow to degenerative tissue

• Improves tissue regeneration

​

Shockwave Therapy

• Stimulates tendon remodeling and collagen repair

• Improves pain and function in chronic cases

• Especially effective for symptoms lasting longer than 3–6 months

​

 

​Our goal is long-term resolution, not just short-term pain relief.

​

​​

Why Tennis Elbow Often Keeps Coming Back

​

Tennis elbow frequently recurs when treatment focuses only on the elbow. Contributing factors such as shoulder weakness, poor grip mechanics, or neck-related referral patterns can overload the tendon repeatedly.

​

Research shows that 80–95% of patients improve with conservative, non-surgical treatment when the condition is managed appropriately.

 

By addressing the entire kinetic chain, we help reduce the risk of recurrence and support long-term healing.

 

​

How Long Does Tennis Elbow Take to Heal?

 

 

Most patients experience significant improvement within 4–8 weeks when treated appropriately. Chronic cases may require additional time, especially if symptoms have been present for several months.

 

Consistency with treatment and home exercises is key to recovery.

​

​

Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow

 

​

Is tennis elbow the same as lateral epicondylitis?

Yes. Tennis elbow is the common term for lateral epicondylitis, a degenerative condition affecting the extensor tendons on the outside of the elbow.​

 

Do I need an MRI or X-ray?

Most cases do not require imaging. Tennis elbow is typically diagnosed through clinical examination. Imaging is reserved for cases that do not improve or when other conditions are suspected.

​

Should I stop exercising or lifting weights?

Not necessarily. Complete rest can delay healing. We focus on activity modification and progressive loading to promote recovery while avoiding flare-ups.

​

Does shockwave therapy really work for tennis elbow?

Yes. Shockwave therapy has strong evidence for chronic lateral epicondylitis and can be highly effective when traditional rehab alone is not enough.

​

Can tennis elbow come from the neck or shoulder?

Yes. Cervical spine issues and shoulder instability can contribute to elbow pain. That’s why we always assess the entire upper extremity and spine.

​

Schedule a Tennis Elbow Evaluation in River Forest, IL

 

 

If you’re struggling with persistent elbow pain, our team at River Forest Health & Wellness is here to help.