What Could Cause Outer Elbow Pain When Bending and Straightening the Arm?

Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, commonly causes pain on the outer part of the elbow. The condition develops when repetitive arm movements strain the tendons connecting forearm muscles to the outer elbow. These strained tendons can develop small tears, causing pain during arm bending or straightening. Initially, the pain may feel like a mild ache before becoming sharper with activity. The condition often stems from repetitive work tasks or sports that stress the arm. While rest, ice, and activity modifications may aid healing, you should consult a healthcare provider if the pain persists or worsens.