Shockwave therapy for tennis elbow
Shockwave therapy is used for tennis elbow, often together with exercises. Tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow and results from overload of the tendon attachments. You can book an appointment without a referral.
See available slotsWhat is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overload of the tendon attachments on the outside of the elbow. It is about seven times more common than golfer's elbow. The name refers to sport, but most people affected are not athletes, and most patients are between 40 and 65 years old.
Research points mostly to wear and tissue irritation rather than inflammation. Many professionals therefore use the term epicondylalgia.
What does it feel like?
Typical symptoms are a dull ache or pain on the outside of the elbow, radiating towards the wrist. The pain comes with gripping and lifting objects of some weight. Everyday tasks such as pouring or holding a cup can become difficult.
What do the sources say about treatment?
NHI recommends adjusting activity at work and in leisure time during the first three months. The clinical guideline for tennis elbow recommends resistance exercises for the wrist extensor muscles when symptoms have lasted for some time.
NHI describes the effect of shockwave therapy as uncertain, and says more research is needed. The treatment is therefore a possible addition to exercise and adjusted load, not a replacement.
At Dr.Dropin the clinicians combine shockwave therapy with examination and exercise guidance adapted to you. Treatment is usually given about one week apart, and the number of treatments varies with the condition.
When should you contact a doctor?
NHI recommends contacting a doctor if the symptoms last for more than three months or affect work and daily activities, if they do not improve on their own, and in case of severe pain or an uncertain diagnosis.
Frequently asked questions about tennis elbow
What is the difference between tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow, golfer's elbow on the inside. Tennis elbow is about seven times more common.
How long does tennis elbow last?
It varies. NHI states that 8 to 9 in 10 are expected to recover within a year without surgery, while the guideline shows that many have persistent symptoms or relapses.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No, you can book an appointment without a referral from a GP.
Further reading
Clinical responsibility
Daniel Vestøl is clinically and medically responsible at Dr.Dropin Fysikalske. This page gives general information and does not replace an examination by a healthcare professional.