Health Articles > Conditions-and-diseases > Tennis Elbow Symptoms - 5 Critical Steps to Self-Diagnosis

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury that affects many people at some point in their lives. Most often, tennis elbow symptoms are caused by a repetitive motion of the wrist, forearm, and elbow, from activities such as tennis and other racquet sports, laborers, and assembly-line workers, among others. The condition is called tennis elbow because as many as 50% of all tennis players will suffer from the condition at some point in their lives. However, tennis players account for less than 5% of all tennis elbow cases - with most cases being work-related repetitive, or overuse injuries. Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is typically diagnosed by a visit to your physician. Most commonly, the list of pain symptoms and a physical exam are used rather than x-ray, MRI or blood tests. Golf elbow is a similar condition with similar symptoms. However, golf elbow affects the inside of the elbow rather than the outside of the elbow. Both conditions are caused by repetitive overuse of the tendons and soft tissue of the elbow. Only your doctor can diagnose tennis elbow with certainty, but most sufferers cite a list of common tennis elbow symptoms which are indiciative of the condition. Common Tennis Elbow Symptoms: * Pain, tenderness, or soreness on the outside bony part of the elbow * Pain that becomes worse when squeezing or holding an object * Soreness or pain radiating in the forearm * Weak or painful grip when turning a door knob or shaking hands * Pain when wrist is extended If you experience most, or all, of these symptoms, you may be suffering from tennis elbow. Please see your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms, as these may be indiciative of a more serious condition requiring medical attention: * Pain that persists when sleeping or inactivity * Pain that persists for a week or more * Bruising, discoloration, or swelling in the elbow area * Inability to bend arm or wrist without pain * Any other unusual symptoms The good news is that most tennis elbow sufferers are able to see significant improvement and pain reduction within several weeks of diagnosis by following a non-surgical treatment plan outlined by their doctor. Less than 5% of tennis elbow patients require surgery. Alternatively, you can google "cure tennis elbow" or "physical therapy for tennis elbow" to find resources to help you cure your tennis elbow symptoms today.