What Causes Pickleball Elbow & Tennis Elbow?
Pickleball elbow or tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) happens when the tendons on the outside of your elbow are overused. This usually comes from repeating the same wrist and gripping motions.
Pickleball has become the new tennis. Even though it’s called tennis elbow, most people who get it don’t play tennis or pickleball. In Regina, we often see it in:
- Desk workers using a mouse or keyboard for long hours
- Mechanics, electricians, and construction workers
- Fitness enthusiasts and weightlifters
- Individuals performing repetitive lifting or gripping tasks
- Pickleball does cause a lot of elbow problems though
Over time, these repeated movements create small strains in the tendon, leading to pain and reduced function.
Is My Elbow Pain Pickleball Elbow or Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow or pickleball elbow usually begins slowly and can get worse if you don’t treat it. You might notice:
- A dull or sharp ache on the outer elbow
- Pain that travels into the forearm
- Weakness when holding objects like a coffee cup
- Discomfort when shaking hands or turning a doorknob
- Increased pain after activity
If these symptoms sound familiar, early treatment with
massage therapy at HealthWorks can prevent the condition from becoming chronic.
How Can Massage Therapy Target the Root Cause of Tennis Elbow & Pickleball Elbow?

At HealthWorks, we look at more than just your elbow. We treat all the muscles that might be causing your pain. Massage therapy helps with both the pain itself and the root cause of the problem.
Releasing Overworked Forearm Muscles
The muscles that move your wrist and fingers can get tight and overworked.
Massage therapy helps loosen these muscles, which takes pressure off the tendon.
Improving Muscle & Tissue Quality
When you use tissues too much, they can get stiff and lose flexibility. Hands-on therapy helps bring back their normal feel and movement.
Stimulating Healing Response
Massage boosts blood flow to areas that don’t usually get much, which helps your body heal damaged tissue faster.
Reducing Protective Guarding
Pain can make nearby muscles tighten up to protect the area. Massage helps break this cycle so you can move more easily.
What Should I Expect During My Massage Therapy Treatment
When you come to HealthWorks, we make sure your care fits your specific needs.
A typical session may include:
- Assessment of your elbow, wrist, and forearm
- Targeted hands-on treatment of affected muscles
- Work on surrounding areas such as the shoulder and upper arm
- Recommendations for stretches and activity modifications
Our team approach makes sure your treatment covers everything, not just the area that hurts.
The Advantage of Integrated Care
A major advantage of choosing HealthWorks for massage therapy in Regina is that you receive care from a team with diverse specialties.
Your recovery may include:
Working with different therapies together often helps you recover faster and more fully.
How Long Does Tennis Elbow & Pickleball Elbow Last?
If you don’t treat tennis elbow or pickleball elbow, it can last for months or even longer. With the right care, many people start to feel better in just a few weeks.
Sticking to regular massage therapy and following home care advice can help you heal much faster.
Tips to Help Pickleball Elbow & Tennis Elbow Between Treatments

To make the most of your massage therapy, it’s important to help your body heal at home too:
- Avoid repetitive gripping or lifting when possible
- Use proper ergonomics at work
- Apply ice after aggravating activities
- Perform recommended stretches
- Gradually reintroduce activity instead of pushing through pain
Your massage therapist will guide you on the best approach based on your lifestyle.
FAQs About Pickleball Elbow & Tennis Elbow Treatment
1. What happens if tennis elbow or pickleball elbow is left untreated?
It can become a long-term condition, leading to chronic pain and reduced strength that affects daily activities.
2. Is it better to rest pickleball elbow or stay active?
A balance is important. Complete rest isn’t always necessary, but modifying activities that cause pain is essential.
3. Can massage therapy help tennis elbow & pickleball elbow, even if I’ve had pain for months?
Yes. Chronic cases often respond well to consistent, targeted massage therapy.
4. Will strengthening exercises be part of my massage treatment?
Yes. As pain improves, strengthening is important to prevent the condition from returning.
5. Can poor posture contribute to tennis elbow & pickleball elbow?
Absolutely. Shoulder and wrist positioning can increase strain on the elbow over time.
6. Why does my pickleball elbow pain feel worse in the morning?
Stiffness after rest is common due to reduced circulation overnight and tightening of tissues.
Start Massage Therapy At HealthWorks Regina Today
Tennis elbow and pickleball elbow doesn’t have to stop you from working, enjoying hobbies, or living your daily life. At HealthWorks Physiotherapy, Massage Therapy & Acupuncture, we offer effective, personalized massage therapy in Regina to help you recover and stay pain-free.
Book your appointment and take the first steps to start feeling better today!