Lateral Epicondylitis or Tennis Elbow is common in racquet sports and jobs or hobbies that require frequent repetitive use of the hands. It is often caused by overuse of the arm with poor mechanics throughout the body. The symptoms begin with a gradual pain on the outside of the elbow and will progressively get worse over time. If left for a prolonged period of time weakness in grip strength may develop and can affect your daily activities. Physical therapists assess not only the local tissue site but also how each person is performing their activity to reduce stress on the tissue and promote healing.