Tennis elbow, known clinically as lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition that develops when tendons on the outside of your elbow become irritated and inflamed. Dr. Reza Jazayeri, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, brings focused clinical expertise in elbow care to patients throughout the Greater Los Angeles area.
His practice, with offices in Beverly Hills, Westlake Village, and Orange, emphasizes a non-surgical-first approach, exploring therapy and injections before surgery. If you need tennis elbow treatment, knowing your options is the first step toward relief.
What Is Tennis Elbow And Its Symptoms
Tennis elbow happens when the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow sustain small tears from overuse. Despite the name, you do not need to play tennis to develop this condition. The primary symptom is pain and tenderness on the outer elbow, which may travel down your forearm.
You might notice weakness when gripping objects, turning a doorknob, or shaking hands. The discomfort often starts gradually and worsens with activity. Morning stiffness and aching that lingers after simple tasks are also common signs that point to lateral epicondylitis.
Common Causes Of Tennis Elbow In Active Lifestyles
Repetitive wrist and arm motions are the main culprits behind tennis elbow. In the Greater Los Angeles area, where active lifestyles are the norm, this condition frequently appears in people who play racquet sports, lift weights, or practice combat sports. Dr. Jazayeri, who serves as faculty at the Smith+Nephew UFC Combat Sports Medicine Course, regularly treats fighters and athletes dealing with this injury.
Beyond sports, occupations that involve repetitive gripping, painting, plumbing, or extended computer use can also lead to lateral epicondylitis. The common thread is repeated stress on the forearm extensor muscles without enough recovery time.
Initial Treatment Options For Tennis Elbow Relief
Most cases of tennis elbow respond well to conservative care started early. Rest and activity modification give irritated tendons time to settle down. Applying ice packs for 15 minutes several times daily helps reduce pain and swelling.
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication may provide short-term relief, though you should discuss long-term use with your doctor. Dr. Jaz’s non-surgical-first approach means he thoroughly explores these measures before recommending more involved procedures. Many patients in the Greater Los Angeles area find that consistent application of these basic steps brings meaningful improvement within a few weeks.
Role Of Physical Therapy In Tennis Elbow Recovery
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of effective tennis elbow treatment. A structured program focuses on eccentric strengthening exercises that gradually load the affected tendon, promoting healing at the cellular level. Your therapist will also guide you through stretching routines to improve flexibility in the forearm muscles.
Manual therapy techniques can address soft tissue restrictions that contribute to the problem. Dr. Jazayeri often incorporates prehabilitation principles, conditioning the area before any needed intervention. For patients across the Greater Los Angeles area, consistent physical therapy frequently resolves symptoms without requiring more advanced treatments.
Benefits Of Using Elbow Braces For Support
An elbow brace or counterforce strap can provide meaningful support during daily activities and sports. The brace works by applying targeted pressure to the forearm muscles just below the elbow, which changes the angle of pull on the irritated tendon. This reduces strain at the attachment point and often eases pain during gripping tasks.
You can wear a brace during activities that trigger symptoms, then remove it at rest. While a brace does not cure lateral epicondylitis, it serves as a useful tool that lets you stay active while the tendon heals. Dr. Jaz can recommend the right type of brace for your specific needs.
Advanced Treatment Options For Persistent Symptoms
When conservative measures do not provide enough relief, several advanced options are available. Corticosteroid injections may offer short-term pain reduction, though their effects are often temporary. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy uses concentrated growth factors from your own blood to support the body’s natural healing response.
Dr. Jazayeri has clinical expertise in biologics and regenerative medicine, including PRP and ortho-biologics, as part of his sports medicine practice. Shock wave therapy is another option that stimulates blood flow to the affected area. Surgery is reserved for cases that persist beyond six to twelve months despite detailed non-surgical care.
How To Modify Activities To Prevent Tennis Elbow
Preventing recurrence means adjusting how you move and work. Evaluate your workstation ergonomics, keeping your wrists in a neutral position while typing. Use proper technique and appropriate grip size if you play racquet sports.
Gradually increase training intensity rather than making sudden jumps in volume. Strengthening the forearm, shoulder, and core muscles creates a more resilient kinetic chain.
Dr. Jazayeri’s focus on musculoskeletal longevity and healthspan means he helps patients in the Greater Los Angeles area build sustainable habits that protect their elbows long after treatment ends. Small daily adjustments often make the biggest difference.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow Treatments
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Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition caused by irritation of the tendons on the outside of the elbow. It often results from repetitive motions, such as those seen in sports or certain jobs that require gripping or twisting.
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Initial treatment typically includes rest and modifying activities to reduce strain on the elbow. Ice therapy and over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can help relieve pain and swelling.
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Physical therapy focuses on strengthening and stretching exercises that promote healing. A therapist will guide you through specific routines to improve flexibility and reduce pain in the affected area.
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If conservative treatments do not provide relief after several weeks, advanced options may be considered. These include corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Surgery is usually a last resort for severe cases that persist despite other treatments.
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To prevent recurrence, it’s important to adjust your activities and improve your ergonomics. Use proper techniques in sports and gradually increase your activity levels to avoid overloading the elbow.
Why Choose Us For Tennis Elbow Treatment?
We understand how painful tennis elbow can be. Dr. Reza Jazayeri is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine.
He has treated many patients in the Greater Los Angeles area. His approach focuses on non-surgical options first, ensuring you get the most effective care without jumping straight to surgery.
Dr. Jazayeri’s training at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles gives him unique insights into sports-related injuries. He combines advanced techniques with personalized recovery plans.
Whether you need physical therapy, injections, or just advice on managing your symptoms, we’re here to help. Your comfort and recovery are our top priorities.
Meet Dr. Reza Jazayeri
Dr. Reza Jazayeri specializes in sports medicine with expertise in shoulder, knee, and elbow injuries. A Southern California native, Dr. Jazayeri combines an engineering background with elite surgical training, completing his orthopedic surgery residency at the nationally ranked NYU Hospital for Joint Diseases and a sports medicine fellowship at the renowned Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic.
After more than 15 years caring for patients within the Southern California Permanente Medical Group, Dr. Jazayeri joined DOCS Health to expand a practice focused on personalized orthopedic and sports medicine care and surgical excellence. As Director of Longevity at DOCS Health, he leads the development and implementation of optimization protocols and regenerative medicine strategies designed to improve long-term musculoskeletal health and extend healthspan.
His published work includes a 2026 coauthored review of nutritional optimization in spine surgery in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. View Dr. Jazayeri’s research publications and training.
Dr.”Jaz” performed knee reconstructive surgery on my knee (I was 58 yrs old and in decent condition/ active and energetic). Tho I was informed to use crutches for whatever amount of time, the NEXT DAY I did not need crutches! I worked HARD (for me) precisely exercising not over the top but being sure to do the exercises correctly. I was up and about in no time. For a few months I was slightly tentative (b/c I’d been traumatized by prior injuries) so I feel that set me back — STILL! I am absolutely amazed at my current status — ZERO ISSUES/concerns, THANK YOU DR. JAZ! ps he was not good at follow up so if you need somebody to hold your hand, he’s not that guy — but my knee was a DISASTER and now I can enjoy hard work when necessary and dancing, ALWAYS!
Find A Specialist For Your Tennis Elbow Needs
Getting the right diagnosis and treatment plan early can shorten your recovery and help you return to the activities you enjoy. Dr. Reza Jazayeri is a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine. His sports medicine fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in Los Angeles and his clinical focus on shoulder, knee, and elbow injuries make him a strong choice for patients seeking tennis elbow treatment in the Greater Los Angeles area.
Virtual consultations are available for patients across California and beyond. Call the practice today to schedule your evaluation at our Beverly Hills, Westlake Village, or Orange office and start your path back to pain-free movement.
Medically reviewed by Reza Jazayeri, M.D. on
