Stubborn tendon pain on the outside or inside of the elbow
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are overuse injuries of the forearm tendons. Despite the names, most people we see got them from work, lifting, gardening or the gym rather than racquet sports. The tendon becomes degenerated rather than simply inflamed, which is why anti-inflammatories and rest often give only temporary relief.
Common signs
- Pain on the outer (tennis) or inner (golfer's) bony point of the elbow
- Weak or painful grip: shaking hands, turning a door handle, lifting a kettle
- Ache that spreads down the forearm after using the hand
- Symptoms lasting more than a few weeks, often months
How we treat elbow tendon pain
Focal Shockwave Therapy targets the degenerated tendon at its attachment and restarts the repair process; it is a recognised alternative to cortisone injections, without their downsides. Class IV Laser Therapy accelerates tissue healing and reduces pain between sessions. Radial Pressure Wave Therapy releases the tight forearm muscles that keep loading the tendon, and Osteopathy checks the wrist, shoulder and neck, which frequently contribute to elbow overload.
A typical plan is three to five shockwave sessions combined with laser and a short loading programme for the forearm.
What to expect
We confirm which tendon is involved, rule out nerve or neck involvement, and begin treatment on the first visit. You will be given a simple, graded strengthening routine, because tendons heal best when they are loaded correctly, not rested completely.
