Expert Care for Pain on the Outside of the Elbow
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition affects many people who do not play tennis. It is often caused by repetitive arm and wrist motions that strain the tendons around the elbow joint.
At Michigan Orthopedic Center, our orthopedic specialists diagnose the cause of your elbow pain and build a treatment plan that supports healing and long-term relief. When conservative options are not enough, our fellowship-trained surgeons offer advanced procedures to restore strength and function.
What Causes Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow results from small tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle, a bony bump on the outside of the elbow. These tears are usually caused by repeated gripping, lifting, or twisting motions, especially with the wrist.
Common risk factors include:
- Repetitive motion in sports like tennis, pickleball, or baseball
- Manual labor such as plumbing, painting, or carpentry
- Frequent use of hand tools or typing for long periods
- Age, especially between 30 and 50
Signs and Symptoms
You may be dealing with tennis elbow if you notice:
- Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Discomfort when lifting objects, turning a doorknob, or shaking hands
- Symptoms that worsen with repetitive wrist or forearm activity
Pain often starts gradually and may increase over time.
Meet Our Elbow Surgeons
At Michigan Orthopedic Center in Lansing, MI, advanced elbow care starts with the expertise of our fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeons. Each surgeon listed below has specialized training and extensive experience in treating complex elbow injuries and conditions, from tendon and ligament repairs to fracture stabilization and joint replacement.
Click below to learn more about the surgeons who specialize in elbow care at Michigan Orthopedic Center and find the right expert for your needs.
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Meredith C. Heisey, DO
Board Certified & Fellowship Trained Orthopedic SurgeonShoulder, Elbow & Knee Specialist
How Michigan Orthopedic Center Diagnoses Tennis Elbow
Your orthopedic provider will review your symptoms, examine your arm, and test your range of motion and grip strength. Imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI, may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other elbow conditions.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow
Most cases improve with conservative care. We may recommend:
- Rest and activity changes to reduce tendon strain
- Physical therapy to strengthen forearm muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications or ice therapy
- A brace or forearm strap to reduce pressure on the tendon
Surgical Options for Chronic Pain
If your pain continues for several months and non-surgical treatment does not help, surgical treatment may be considered. Our surgeons perform procedures to remove damaged tissue and stimulate tendon healing. Most patients recover with a short course of physical therapy after surgery and return to normal activity with improved comfort and strength.
Get Back to Pain-Free Movement
If tennis elbow is interfering with your work, hobbies, or quality of life, our team at Michigan Orthopedic Center is here to help. We provide clear answers and treatment options designed to reduce pain and restore function. Schedule your evaluation today.
Your Next Steps…
- Request An Appointment
- Receive A Custom Treatment Plan
- Work Hard and Progress In Your Recovery
- Recover & Enjoy Life Pain-Free
