When the tendon is inflamed, the nerves around the tendon become irritated. Then moving your elbow is painful. Turning your hand or grasping objects can also be painful.
Your doctor can usually diagnose tennis elbow from your symptoms and from the look and feel of your elbow. He or she may order an x-ray to be sure the bone is not diseased or fractured. In some cases, other tests may be needed.
A tendon attaches the extensor muscles to the epicondyle.
The lateral epicondyle is the bony knob on the outer side of the elbow.
Extensor muscles allow you to use your wrist and hand to grasp and turn things.