Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Are you struggling with tennis elbow? Medically known as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow is a common overuse injury affecting the outer part of the elbow. It can cause pain, tenderness, and reduced grip strength, making everyday tasks and sports challenging.

What Causes Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons attaching your forearm muscles to the outer elbow become overworked or degenerated. Common causes include:

• Playing racquet sports like tennis or squash

• Frequent typing or mouse use

• Lifting heavy objects incorrectly

• Repetitive wrist extension movements

Evidence Supporting Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate tendon healing. Multiple studies support its effectiveness:

• A 2017 systematic review in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that ESWT significantly reduced pain and improved function in chronic lateral epicondylitis compared to placebo or no treatment.

• Another study in The American Journal of Sports Medicine (2015) reported that ESWT improved grip strength and patient-reported outcomes in patients with chronic tennis elbow, particularly those who had not responded to conservative therapy.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow:

• Accelerates tendon repair by stimulating collagen production

• Reduces chronic pain and inflammation

• Improves grip strength and arm function

• Non-surgical, safe, and quick

What to Expect During Treatment

A typical session lasts 5–10 minutes. A gel is applied to the elbow, and a handheld device delivers focused shockwaves. Most patients require 3–5 sessions, spaced 1–2 weeks apart. Mild discomfort during treatment is common, but there is no downtime.

Book Shockwave Therapy in Auckland

At Care Rehab Physio, we specialize in treating tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow using advanced shockwave therapy. Our treatments are tailored to your condition, helping you reduce pain, improve function, and get back to your daily activities.