Tennis Elbow in Walking Football

Tennis elbow is an overuse injury affecting the tendons on the outside of the elbow. These tendons control wrist and hand movement and are used constantly for balance, shielding, stabilising the body and absorbing impact during play.

Many walking footballers develop tennis elbow without realising it, as symptoms often begin gradually and worsen over time.

Why Tennis Elbow Is Common

Tennis elbow is usually caused by repeated gripping, bracing and arm tension. Using the arms for balance, pushing up from the ground, bracing during turns and tensing the forearms during play all increase stress on the elbow tendons.

Poor posture, weak forearm muscles and playing through fatigue raise risk further.

Early Warning Signs

Pain on the outside of the elbow, soreness when gripping, weakness in the hand, discomfort lifting objects and stiffness after matches are common symptoms.

What To Do If Pain Starts

Reduce activity immediately. Apply ice for 15–20 minutes, rest the arm and avoid heavy gripping. Seek medical advice if pain lasts more than 48 hours.

Typical Recovery Times

Rehab and Strengthening

Gentle wrist stretches, forearm strengthening, grip exercises and posture correction help recovery.

Prevention Tips

Warm up arms, stretch forearms regularly, avoid gripping unnecessarily and maintain good posture.

Final Thoughts

Tennis elbow develops slowly but can become long-lasting. Early care and proper conditioning help keep arms pain-free.

Part of the Walking Football Injuries Hub:
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