Claiming For Tennis Elbow 

Updated July 2026

Tennis elbow is a frequently overlooked workplace injury and if your employer failed to protect you from this condition, you may be eligible to make a tennis elbow claim. It is common in jobs involving repetitive arm, wrist, or gripping movements for an extended time. While it has been associated with tennis because of the repetitive motions used to play the sport, it’s the sort of injury which may occur at work where repetitive movement is required.

Below we explain how it occurs in the workplace and when negligence is to blame which may lead to a personal injury claim for compensation.

What Is Tennis Elbow in the Workplace?

Tennis elbow is medically known as lateral epicondylitis. It is a painful condition caused by inflammation or micro‑tears in the tendons that attach to the outside of the elbow. Although the name suggests a sporting injury, most cases actually arise from work‑related repetitive strain.

In workplace environments, it falls under Workplace Upper Limb Disorders according to the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE).  This condition typically develops due to:

• Repetitive gripping
• Frequent twisting motions
• Continuous lifting
• Prolonged use of tools
• High‑force manual tasks

Therefore, the condition can become debilitating, making everyday tasks difficult and affecting your ability to work.

How Common Is Tennis Elbow at Work?

Tennis elbow is one of the most common repetitive strain injuries (RSIs) in UK workplaces. It affects thousands of workers every year, particularly those in physically demanding or repetitive roles.

The CPD Manual Handling Training cited 1 in 500 workers as having an RSI condition, which represents up to 600,000 workers at any one time, while a worrying 90% of office workers may experience musculoskeletal disorders during their careers. Upper limb and neck disorders reported an increase in 2024/25 which reflects growing pressure from repetitive screen-based tasks.

Industries where tennis elbow frequently occurs include:

• Construction
• Manufacturing and assembly
• Warehousing and logistics
• Maintenance and trades
• Healthcare and care work
• Cleaning
• Catering and hospitality
• Hairdressing and beauty
• Office roles with poor ergonomics

If your job requires repeated arm or wrist movements, you are at a higher risk of developing tennis elbow due to workplace strain.

Symptoms of Work‑Related Tennis Elbow

Recognising tennis elbow early is crucial. According to the NHS, symptoms can include:

• Pain on the outside of the elbow
• Weak grip strength
• Difficulty lifting or carrying objects
• Pain that worsens with repetitive tasks
• Tenderness when touching the outer elbow

If your symptoms improve when you’re away from work, this is often a strong indicator that your job duties are contributing to your condition.

When Can Tennis Elbow Be Put Down to Employer Negligence?

To make a successful personal injury claim, you must show that your employer failed to take reasonable steps to protect you from foreseeable harm. Tennis elbow is often caused by repetitive strain, awkward posture, or excessive force. However, it’s important to know that employers have a duty to manage all of these.

Examples of Employer Negligence

Lack of ergonomic assessment: No evaluation of your workstation, tools, or working posture.

Failure to provide proper equipment: No lifting aids, anti‑vibration tools, or adjustable workstations.

Unsafe work design: Requiring workers to perform repetitive or high‑strain tasks without rotation.

Poor training: No instruction on safe lifting, correct posture, or how to avoid repetitive strain.

Ignoring early symptoms: Failing to act when workers report discomfort or pain.

Unrealistic workloads: High‑force tasks or excessive repetition due to understaffing.

Failure to maintain tools: Damaged or heavy tools that increase strain on the arm and wrist.

How to Prove Tennis Elbow Was Caused by Work

Evidence is essential for building a strong claim and useful evidence includes:

• Medical records and diagnosis
• GP notes linking your condition to your job
• Occupational health reports
• Photographs of your workstation or tools
• Witness statements from colleagues
• Records of complaints made to your employer
• Accident book entries
• Work schedules showing repetitive or high‑strain tasks

What Can You Claim Compensation For?

A successful tennis elbow claim can typically cover:

• Pain and suffering
• Loss of earnings
• Future loss of earnings
• Medical treatment and physiotherapy
• Travel costs
• Specialist equipment
• Impact on daily life and hobbies

As each claim is different, your personal injury lawyer will be able to estimate your claim depending on the specific circumstances.

How to Start Your Tennis Elbow Personal Injury Claim

You can start your claim today by taking these steps:

Seek medical attention: Get a diagnosis and follow treatment advice.

Report your symptoms to your employer: Ensure it is recorded.

Gather evidence: Photos, witness statements, medical notes.

Speak to a specialist solicitor: We work with experienced solicitors who will assess your case and guide you through the process.

Begin your claim: Your solicitor will handle all communication with your employer or insurer.

Our partner solicitors offer a No Win, No Fee agreements, meaning you won’t pay anything upfront.

Time Limits for Tennis Elbow Claims

You usually have three years from:

• The date your symptoms began, or
• The date you first realised your tennis elbow was caused by work

If you’re unsure when your time limit started, a solicitor can clarify this for you.

Top 5 FAQs: Tennis Elbow Personal Injury Claims

Can I claim if my tennis elbow developed gradually? Yes. Most cases develop over time due to repetitive strain.

Do I need to prove employer negligence? Yes. You must show your employer failed to protect you.

Can I claim while still employed? Absolutely. Your employer cannot legally punish you for claiming.

What if my employer denies responsibility? Your solicitor will gather evidence to prove your case.

Will I need a medical assessment? Yes. An independent medical expert will assess your condition.

How We Can Help

At first, we will need some initial details about the specifics of your injuries. Contact us today on 0333 358 3034 or through our online form to get started. A member of our team will quickly be in touch to discuss your case.

About Our Legal Expert: This content is produced with oversight by Michael Jefferies, Managing Director who has over 30 years’ legal experience.

Written by Tanya Waterworth, Digital Content Writer