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Stretching and strengthening exercises for tennis elbow

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By Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH

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Follow instructions from your physical therapist or other health professional for stretching and strengthening exercises.

Stretching exercises are controlled stretches that prevent tennis elbow stiffness and tendon shortening. Gently bend, straighten, and rotate your wrist. If you have increasing pain, slow down or stop the exercises.

After the pain has decreased and your flexibility has improved, you may do strengthening exercises with light hand weights that are less than 2 lb (0.9 kg). Weights can be increased gradually.

A rowing machine (ergometer) can simultaneously stretch and strengthen the muscle around the elbow. Consult a sports trainer or physical therapist before using a rowing ergometer; improper form can cause back or neck strain.

Credits

Author Shannon Erstad, MBA/MPH
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer William M. Green, MD - Emergency Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kenneth J. Koval, MD - Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Trauma
Specialist Medical Reviewer Patrick J. McMahon, MD - Orthopedics
Last Updated January 28, 2009
Last Updated: 01/28/2009