Tennis Elbow: Lateral Epicondylitis or Lateral Epicondylalgia – What’s in a Name?

If you’re experiencing pain on the outside of your elbow, especially when lifting, gripping, or twisting your forearm, you might be dealing with what’s commonly known as Tennis Elbow. But did you know that this condition is referred to by two different medical terms—Lateral Epicondylitis and Lateral Epicondylalgia? So, what’s the difference, and does the name really matter?

Lateral Epicondylitis vs. Lateral Epicondylalgia

• Lateral Epicondylitis literally means inflammation (-itis) of the tendon that attaches to the lateral epicondyle (outer elbow). This term has been traditionally used to describe the condition.
• Lateral Epicondylalgia, on the other hand, is a more accurate term in many chronic cases. It means “pain at the lateral epicondyle” without implying inflammation, which better reflects what’s happening in the tendon: tiny microtears and degeneration, not just inflammation.

In short, most people with Tennis Elbow don’t actually have “-itis”—they have “-algia”, or a degenerative condition. This is important because the treatment approach changes depending on the nature of the problem.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow:

• Pain or burning sensation on the outer elbow
• Weak grip strength
• Discomfort with lifting, twisting, or using tools
• Symptoms that worsen over weeks or months

Effective Treatment Options

At MotionHeal Physiotherapy and Massage, we take a personalized and evidence-based approach to elbow pain. Treatment may include:

• Manual therapy to relieve joint stiffness
• Therapeutic exercises to strengthen the forearm
• Shockwave therapy or laser therapy to stimulate tendon healing
• Dry needling or IMS for pain modulation
• Education and ergonomic advice to prevent recurrence

Whether you’re a tennis player or just someone dealing with repetitive strain, we can help you get back to doing what you love—pain-free.

Ready to Treat Your Tennis Elbow?

Let’s get to the root of your elbow pain and build a plan that works for you.

Book your appointment today at MotionHeal Physiotherapy and Massage in SW Calgary.

Call us at (403) 508-0444