Movements and Factors Contributing to Tennis Elbow

Demographics and Prevalence

• Tennis elbow primarily affects adults aged 40 and older, involving the dominant arm 75% of the time, highlighting the role of repetitive use in its development 1

Common Causative Movements

• Repetitive wrist extension against resistance is the primary movement pattern that leads to tennis elbow, particularly in racquet sports and occupational activities 1
• Occupations demanding repetitive forearm pronation and supination combined with wrist extension 1
• Computer mouse use and typing that involves sustained wrist extension 2

Biomechanical Factors

• Movements that cause microtrauma at the lateral epicondyle where the forearm extensor muscles originate 1
• Forceful gripping with simultaneous wrist extension creates significant stress on the common extensor origin 2

Warning Signs and Aggravating Movements

• Pain during activities that require stabilizing the wrist in extension while the elbow is straight 2
• Pain exacerbated by shaking hands or opening doors 2

Movement Modifications to Reduce Symptoms

• Avoid activities that don't allow proper rest between repetitive wrist extension movements 2
• Modify gripping technique to reduce stress on the lateral epicondyle during daily activities 2
• Incorporate appropriate warm-up before activities that involve the problematic movements 2