In 40 seconds
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) affects ~50% of regular tennis players over age 35. It's a degenerative tendon condition more than acute inflammation — modern term is 'lateral epicondylar tendinopathy'. PEMF therapy supports tendon cell repair and is now standard kit at tennis centres globally. Pairs with eccentric loading (Tyler twist) and stroke mechanics review.
Quick facts
- Affects: ~50% of regular players over 35
- Modern term: Lateral epicondylar tendinopathy
- Standard care: Eccentric loading + stroke mechanics review
- PEMF role: Reduces inflammation, supports tenocyte repair
- Avoid: Repeated steroid injections (rupture risk)
Why this injury happens in this sport
Backhand mechanics with late wrist extension overloads the common extensor tendon at the lateral epicondyle. Beginners and improvers (not pros) get it most. Modern view: it's chronic degeneration, not acute inflammation.
Recovery and return to sport
PEMF 2–3× per week for 6 weeks alongside Tyler twist protocol (eccentric wrist extension with rubber bar). Stroke mechanics review by qualified coach. Most players return to full play within 8–12 weeks.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get a steroid injection?
Generally no for chronic tennis elbow — repeated injections weaken the tendon and increase rupture risk. PEMF + eccentric loading has better long-term outcomes.
Best racquet for prevention?
Lower string tension, larger grip, modern frame all reduce load. A coach review of backhand mechanics matters most.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.