Tennis elbow is often described as a “minor” overuse injury, but many people are surprised when the pain lingers for months despite rest, braces, or exercises found online. If your elbow pain keeps returning or never fully settles, it’s natural to wonder whether something has been missed and how long recovery is actually supposed to take.
This article explains why tennis elbow may not heal as expected, common factors that delay recovery, and when a proper assessment becomes important.
What exactly is tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is caused by irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. These tendons are involved in gripping, lifting, and wrist extension.
Despite the name, it commonly affects:
- Office workers
- Tradespeople
- Gym-goers and racquet sport players
- Parents lifting young children
It is not always an inflammatory condition, especially in long-standing cases.
How long does tennis elbow usually take to heal?
Recovery time varies, depending on severity, activity levels, and how early treatment begins.
General recovery timelines:
- Mild cases: several weeks to a few months
- Moderate cases: 3–6 months
- Long-standing or chronic cases: 6–12 months or longer
If pain persists beyond expected timelines, it may indicate ongoing tendon overload or an incomplete diagnosis.
Why is my tennis elbow not improving despite rest?
Persistent symptoms are common and often linked to underlying factors that continue to stress the tendon.
Common reasons tennis elbow does not heal include:
- Continuing aggravating activities without realising it
- Incorrect or poorly guided exercises
- Relying solely on rest without rehabilitation
- Returning to activity too quickly
- Using braces without addressing biomechanics
Without addressing the root cause, symptoms often return once normal activity resumes.
Can tennis elbow become chronic?
Yes. When symptoms last longer than 3–6 months, the condition is often described as chronic.
Chronic tennis elbow may involve:
- Tendon degeneration rather than inflammation
- Reduced tendon healing capacity
- Pain during simple tasks like lifting a kettle or shaking hands
- Ongoing weakness with gripping
At this stage, management usually needs to be more structured and individualised.
Could it be something other than tennis elbow?
Sometimes, persistent elbow pain is not tennis elbow, or not just tennis elbow.
Other conditions that may mimic or contribute include:
- Nerve irritation from the neck or forearm
- Radial tunnel syndrome
- Referred pain from shoulder issues
- Partial tendon tears
This is why a proper assessment is important when symptoms do not follow the usual recovery pattern.
What helps tennis elbow recover properly?
Management depends on the stage and contributing factors, but often involves a combination of strategies rather than a single solution.
A structured approach may include:
- Activity modification (not complete rest)
- Progressive, guided strengthening exercises
- Addressing wrist, shoulder, and grip mechanics
- Targeted physiotherapy
- Further investigations if recovery stalls
Treatment aims to support tendon healing while preventing repeated overload.
When should I see a doctor for tennis elbow?
It may be time for a review if:
- Pain persists beyond a few months
- Symptoms worsen despite rest
- Daily activities are affected
- Grip strength is declining
- You are unsure whether the diagnosis is correct
Early assessment helps prevent prolonged discomfort and unnecessary trial-and-error treatments.
Key pointers to remember
- Tennis elbow often takes longer to heal than expected
- Ongoing strain is a common reason for delayed recovery
- Chronic pain may involve tendon degeneration
- Not all elbow pain is tennis elbow
- A structured plan improves recovery outcomes
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does my tennis elbow keep coming back?
Repetitive loading without addressing underlying mechanics is a common reason.
2. Is complete rest the best treatment?
Prolonged rest alone may weaken the tendon and delay recovery.
3. Can tennis elbow heal after months of pain?
Yes, but chronic cases often need a targeted rehabilitation approach.
4. Does wearing a brace fix tennis elbow?
Braces may reduce strain temporarily but do not address the root cause.
5. When is imaging or further testing needed?
When symptoms persist or the diagnosis is uncertain, further evaluation may help.
Struggling With Elbow Pain That Isn’t Improving?
Get clarity on what’s delaying your recovery
If your tennis elbow has not improved despite rest or self-treatment, a proper assessment can help determine whether ongoing tendon overload, biomechanics, or another condition is involved.
A consultation with Dr Ananda Vella at OrthoCare – Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine allows your elbow pain to be evaluated in the context of your work, sport, and daily activities, so the next steps are clear and appropriate.
Book an appointment to review your elbow pain and recovery options
