In tennis beginners, the same problem, which is synonymous with inner elbow issues known as golfer’s elbow, is seen 10 times more frequently than golfers. Studies have shown that tennis elbow is more common among recreational athletes. Although the level of evidence is not high, there are studies suggesting that using both hands for backhand strokes can reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow by absorbing the forces on the non-dominant side.

Factors contributing to this problem include the use of heavy rackets that cause stress at the attachment site (extensor origin), non-standard heavy balls, and improper tension adjustment of the racket strings. The main complaints include pain located on the lateral side of the elbow that can radiate to the forearm during gripping the racket, making a fist, and lifting the wrist upward. The typical pain that most athletes seek medical attention for occurs during wrist extension or handshake movements.

Treatment involves stretching and strengthening the wrist extensor muscles through isometric exercises and light weight exercises. Application of ice alone is not beneficial without the mentioned isometric and resistance exercises. Other treatments include wearing a tennis elbow band (which can reduce tension at the muscle attachment site), steroid injections, platelet-rich plasma injections (containing a high concentration of platelets above normal values), extracorporeal shockwave therapy, and surgical intervention.