The first symptom of lateral epicondylitis is task related soreness or it can just be a dull ache around the outside of the elbow. Normally, this will appear only when you are actively using the joint but as the condition worsens you may experience more severe pain for prolonged periods of time. A formal definition of tennis elbow is that is a pain caused by inflammation of the tendon on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm muscles.

The first symptom of lateral epicondylitis is task related soreness or it can just be a dull ache around the outside of the elbow. Normally, this will appear only when you are actively using the joint but as the condition worsens you may experience more severe pain for prolonged periods of time. A formal definition of tennis elbow is that is a pain caused by inflammation of the tendon on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm muscles.

Tennis elbow pain can be self-managed to an extent (although increasing levels of pain and discomfort should be a trigger for you to consult a health care professional). The most significant thing that you should do is to listen to your pain and understand the activities that cause it to flare up. If your body is hurting you it is trying to signal you to an underlying problem and you should ease off of the task that is resulting in pain

Self massage can be helpful in easing the pain around the elbow. Generally when you are suffering from lateral epicondylitis then the forearm muscles are tight, in particular the forearm extensors (the ones on the outside of the arm). By massaging the area between the elbow and wrist it is possible to release some the tightness and address some trigger points that may be present in the forearm extensor muscles. When you are massaging these muscles then there may be spots of particular tenderness (away from the elbow) - apply static pressure to these points until the tenderness subsides.

Recovery from tennis elbow can be restricted by any swelling that may occur. The swelling can make it harder for the elbow to move and function properly. You can treat that swelling in a couple of different ways. Perhaps the best choice is to apply ice to the swollen area (of course do not apply the ice directly onto the skin but wrap in a cloth and only apply for up to 15 minutes at any one time).

If the elbow pain persists then consult a suitable health care professional such as a physical therapist, physiotherapist, osteopath, chiropractor or massage therapist. A physical therapist may suggest that you have the elbow immobilised by using an elbow brace. There are many different types of elbow brace and a physical therapist will be able to direct you to the one most suitable for you, given your pain levels and normal daily activities. Wearing an elbow brace will permit you to restrict movement of the elbow and also the simple act of wearing a brace can help to remind you and others that you are indeed injured. This can be a good thing if you are someone who tends to push themselves too far.

Flexibility and strength conditioning become important when your pain levels begin to reduce. Consultation with your physical therapist will provide you with the directions for what exercises are appropriate for you. Again, you need to be careful to pay attention to your body's signals while you are trying to work out to avoid re-aggravating the injury.

If nonsurgical forms of treatment do not reduce the pain of tennis elbow then surgery may be considered as a last resort. A suitable surgeon will normally provide information regarding the potential treatments along with a list of the risks and possible outcomes. Lateral epicondylitis can be a chronic condition that may require several months for healing to occur fully. Prompt diagnosis and treatment is important for anyone suffering from elbow pain.