Why Your “Tennis Elbow” Isn’t Going Away — And What Actually Fixes It

Outer elbow pain has a reputation. Most people call it “tennis elbow.” The problem? Most of the people who have it don’t play tennis.

If you’ve had pain on the outside of your elbow for weeks — or even months — you’re likely dealing with lateral elbow tendinopathy. And if it’s not improving, there’s a reason.

First, Let’s Clear Something Up

This condition isn’t usually an “inflammation” problem. It’s typically a tendon overload problem.

The wrist extensor tendons attach at the outside of the elbow. When they’re repeatedly stressed (gripping, typing, lifting kids, workouts, tools, mouse use), the tendon structure changes. It becomes irritated, sensitive, and painful with load.

That’s why:

• Rest alone doesn’t fix it

• Bracing doesn’t fix it

• Icing may reduce symptoms temporarily — but doesn’t solve the root cause

Tendons don’t just need rest. They need the right stimulus.

Why It Keeps Coming Back

Here’s what many people miss: it’s rarely just the elbow. The wrist, elbow, shoulder, and even the cervical spine all influence how force travels through that tendon.

If:

• Your wrist isn’t moving well

• Your elbow joint mechanics are restricted

• Your neck mobility is limited

• Or your shoulder isn’t stabilizing properly

…the tendon keeps absorbing more load than it should. You can treat the tissue all day long — but if the mechanics aren’t addressed, it won’t calm down long term.

What Actually Works

Effective elbow pain treatment combines mechanics + circulation + progressive loading. Here’s how we approach it:

1. Chiropractic Adjustments

Restoring motion in the wrist, elbow, and cervical spine reduces unnecessary stress on the tendon.

Improved joint mechanics = improved load distribution.

If a joint isn’t moving well, the tissue attached to it pays the price.

2. Acupuncture

Acupuncture has been shown to help reduce pain and improve local circulation in chronic tendon conditions.

For stubborn cases — especially those lasting more than 6–8 weeks — this can be a powerful addition. It helps calm sensitivity and stimulate healing in tissue that has been irritated for months.

3. Eccentric Strengthening (FlexBar Rehab)

This is the part most people skip. Tendons respond best to progressive loading, particularly eccentric strengthening. Controlled loading with tools like a FlexBar helps remodel the tendon structure and improve its capacity to tolerate stress.

Translation: we don’t just reduce pain — we build resilience.

4. Supportive Taping (When Appropriate)

Kinesiotape can temporarily offload the tendon and reduce strain during daily activities. It’s not magic. It’s support. We use it strategically — not as a long-term crutch.

What Not to Do

If your elbow has been painful for weeks, avoid:

• Endless rest

• Constant bracing

• Repeated cortisone injections without addressing mechanics

• Ignoring neck or wrist involvement

These may quiet symptoms temporarily — but they don’t rebuild tendon capacity.

When Should You Get It Checked?

If your elbow pain:

• Has lasted more than 2–3 weeks

• Hurts with gripping, lifting, or twisting

• Feels weak or fatigued

• Keeps coming back

…it’s time for a proper evaluation. The longer tendinopathy lingers, the more sensitive the tissue can become. Early, targeted care prevents it from turning into a chronic cycle.

The Bottom Line

Elbow pain isn’t random. And it’s rarely solved by hoping it goes away. When you restore joint mechanics, improve circulation, and progressively load the tendon — healing happens.

If your elbow hasn’t improved with rest alone, let’s take a smarter approach. You don’t have to live with it.

Call or text to book an appointment at Cloud Peak Chiropractic in Worland or Thermopolis. We can help you work smarter, and keep you out of pain.