What does the term tennis elbow refer to?

Tennis elbow refers specifically to lateral elbow epicondylitis, which is a condition characterized by pain on the outer part of the elbow. It is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm, primarily those responsible for extending the wrist and fingers, leading to inflammation in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. While the name suggests a connection to the sport of tennis, it can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions involving the wrist and arm.

The correct answer reflects the nature of the injury, which is common among tennis players due to the repetitive motion of swinging a racket. Understanding this condition is crucial for sports medicine as it informs both treatment strategies and preventive measures for athletes and individuals engaged in activities requiring similar arm motions.