If you’re feeling a burning pain on the outside of your elbow or wrist—especially when gripping, lifting, or trying to power through your workout—you might be dealing with tennis elbow. And no, you don’t need to play tennis to get it.
At St. Pete Physical Therapy, we specialize in helping active people bounce back from nagging pain like this. Whether you’re swinging kettlebells, chasing a PR, paddling out, or just living life on the go, we’ve got your back (and elbow).
What Is Tennis Elbow, Anyway?
Tennis elbow—technically called lateral epicondylitis—is an overuse injury that affects the tendons on the outside of your elbow. These tendons connect your forearm muscles to your elbow joint, and when they’re stressed repeatedly (think gripping, twisting, or lifting motions), inflammation and microtears can occur.
That pain you feel during pull-ups, rows, or even shaking someone’s hand? That could be your tendons waving a white flag.
Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow:
- Burning or aching pain on the outside of the elbow
- Weak grip strength (opening jars, holding weights, etc.)
- Discomfort during lifting, pulling, or twisting movements
- Pain radiating from the elbow to the forearm or wrist
- Morning stiffness or pain after rest
Tennis elbow is most common in adults between 30 and 50—but if you’re training hard, working with your hands, or simply living an active lifestyle, it can hit you at any age.
You Don’t Have to Live With It—Physical Therapy Can Help
Let’s be real: nothing’s more frustrating than pain holding you back from doing what you love. Whether it’s in the gym, on the court, or just getting through your day without wincing, our team is here to help you move pain-free again.
At St. Pete Physical Therapy, we take a performance-based approach to healing. That means no cookie-cutter plans. Just personalized care designed to get you stronger, faster, and back in the game.
What You Can Expect from Our Tennis Elbow Treatment:
1. Detailed Movement Assessment
We don’t just treat the pain—we find the why behind it. We assess your strength, mobility, and mechanics to pinpoint what’s causing the strain.
2. Hands-On Treatment for Pain Relief
We use manual therapy techniques like soft tissue work, joint mobilizations, and targeted modalities (such as electrical stimulation or dry needling) to reduce inflammation and restore movement.
3. Strength & Mobility Work
You’ll follow a custom exercise progression that retrains the muscles in your shoulder, forearm, elbow, wrist and your core. We’re not just fixing the issue—we’re bulletproofing your arm.
4. Sport-Specific & Lifestyle Coaching
We’ll also coach you on how to modify your training (without stopping), improve ergonomics, and correct movement patterns so you stay pain-free.
Active People Heal Better—Especially with the Right Game Plan
If you’re driven, disciplined, and serious about your health, you’re already ahead of the curve. Now you just need the right support system to get your elbow back in fighting shape.
At St. Pete Physical Therapy, we work with athletes and active individuals every day. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or full-time competitor, we’re here to help you crush your recovery—so you can keep doing what you love, pain-free.
Think You Might Be Dealing with Tennis Elbow?
Don’t let it sideline you. Call our St. Petersburg, FL clinic today to book your personalized evaluation. Let’s get you moving better, stronger, and without pain.
