Tests for Diagnosis of Tennis Elbow

To diagnose tennis elbow, a series of exams and tests can be performed. The most useful information to diagnose tennis elbow comes from the patient's description of the symptoms and pain associated with the elbow during daily activities.

  1. Diagnosis by Symptoms

    • Classic signs and symptoms of tennis elbow are pain, swelling, redness and the elbow being warm to the touch. Elbow pain while grasping and squeezing, pain when lifting heavy objects and having a weak grip are all signs of tennis elbow.

    Diagnosis by Medical Evaluation

    • An orthopedic doctor or a sports doctor can diagnose tennis elbow by putting pressure on the outer side or the underneath side of the elbow with their thumb, checking for pain. They will check for full range of motion of the arm and wrists and for stiffness of the joints.

    Diagnosis by Physical Tests

    • One test that is used to diagnose tennis elbow is the Cozen's test. With this test, the doctor will hold the elbow with one hand and with the patient's arm extended with a clenched fist, the doctor will use the other hand to provide resistance at the wrist. Pain while flexing the wrist will indicate tennis elbow.

    Diagnosis by Medical Equipment

    • In most cases, an X-ray will not prove useful to diagnose tennis elbow. It may be used to help rule out other issues such as arthritis or bone fractures. An MRI imaging test may be used to look for bone problems or soft tissue damage.

    Considerations

    • If your tennis elbow persists after resting, icing and taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, consult with a sports doctor or an orthopedic doctor. With proper maintenance through exercise and conditioning, you should be pain free.