Lateral Epicondylitis — Not just from tennis! Pain from overuse of the hand and elbow
The medical name is lateral epicondylitis.
It is a condition where the tendon attachment on the outer side of the elbow becomes damaged and painful, near the bony bump. Despite the "-itis" in its medical name, the chronic stage is now understood to be tendon degeneration (a build-up of tiny tears) rather than true inflammation.
It is caused not only by tennis but also by computer work, housework, and manual labor — any activity that involves repeated use of the hand and elbow. It is most common in people over 40.
Wrist-twisting movements are repeated during sports or work
The tendons that move the wrist are constantly pulled at the outer elbow
Age-related tendon degeneration adds to the problem, so repair cannot keep up
Mild cases may recover within 1-2 months by cutting back on the movements that trigger pain while continuing stretching and a graded strengthening program (eccentric exercise). Severe cases may take 6 months or longer. If left untreated, it tends to become chronic, so early treatment is important.