Short answer
Pain on the outside of the elbow from padel is usually lateral elbow tendinopathy, or tennis elbow. It is common in players who have increased how often they play, changed racket, or grip tightly on volleys and bandejas. It responds to managing playing volume and progressive tendon strengthening, and most players keep playing in some form.
Common causes
Playing volume
Going from one to four matches a week.
Racket and grip
Heavier or stiffer rackets and the wrong grip size.
Technique
Wrist-dominant volleys and bandejas.
What usually helps right now
- Reduce matches for a few weeks; drills at lower intensity can continue.
- Start progressive forearm strengthening, including slow lowering of a weight.
- Check grip size with your coach or pro shop.
What to avoid
- A cortisone injection as a first step; it can worsen long-term outcomes.
- Constant stretching of a sore tendon.
When to book an assessment
- It has lasted more than a few weeks.
- Daily tasks like lifting a cup hurt.
Get urgent medical care if
- Numbness or weakness in the hand.
How we treat it
- AssessHistory, movement and clinical tests, with screening for anything that needs a doctor.
- ExplainA clear diagnosis in plain language, and what recovery usually looks like.
- TreatHands-on care where it helps: joint and soft tissue work, dry needling or adjustments.
- RebuildExercises and a training plan so it holds up, with an end point.
Questions
How long does padel elbow take to heal?
Often two to six months, faster with the right loading.
Does a counterforce strap help?
It reduces pain while playing for some players.