Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) — wellbeing rituals and topical CBD

Lateral epicondylitis is a tendinopathy of the wrist extensor muscles, which attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, the bony prominence on the outer side of the elbow. Clinically, it presents as pain on palpation of that area, on resisted wrist extension and when gripping. The INRS classes it among musculoskeletal disorders, the leading cause of recognised occupational diseases in France, in tilers, painters, plumbers and screen-based workers.

Racket sports (tennis, padel, badminton), repetitive manual work, intensive screen work without suitable ergonomics, an abrupt return to sport after a long break, or unsuitable equipment (a badly strung racket, too thin a handle) are among the most frequent causes.

Relative rest takes precedence over stopping altogether: continuing gentle activities preserves mobility. Physiotherapy, with progressive eccentric work on the extensors, stretching and deep transverse massage, remains the mainstay of recovery in the medium term. Painkillers (paracetamol as first line, NSAIDs for a short period if necessary) are a matter for medical advice. On the ergonomic side, reviewing technique with a professional for racket players, or adjusting wrist rest and mouse for screen-based workers, completes the management. An epicondylitis brace may provide relief during the return to activity, depending on the case.

Since February 2021, cannabidiol has been listed in the European Commission's CosIng database, and balms come under European cosmetics regulation 1223/2009. The Conseil d'État ruling of 29 December 2022 stabilised the market around a finished-product THC threshold below 0.30%. For competitors, the AFLD points out that CBD has been removed from the WADA list since 2018, but that THC remains prohibited in competition; certified THC-free isolates remain the safest choice, as set out in our article on CBD and athletes. A cosmetic may not legally claim any painkilling or anti-inflammatory action.

In the morning, a gentle stretch of the extensors, arm outstretched palm down and wrist flexed with the other hand, held for 20 seconds and repeated three times, prepares the joint. In the evening, a massage of the elbow and forearm with a CBD cosmetic balm, in slow circles over the epicondyle and the muscle mass for three to five minutes, rounds off the routine, followed by another gentle stretch. In the acute phase, applying cold — an ice pack in a cloth for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day — may bring temporary relief.

Pain persisting beyond two to three weeks despite relative rest, intense or night-time pain, a noticeable loss of strength, numbness in the hand or a history of a fall should lead you to a general practitioner, a sports physician or a specialist physiotherapist.

CBD is not a medicine. In case of persistent elbow pain, consult a healthcare professional. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women or for minors.

How long does epicondylitis last?

The course varies, from a few weeks to several months depending on severity. Early management combining eccentric physiotherapy and ergonomic adjustments generally shortens the duration.

Can you carry on playing tennis with epicondylitis?

Not during the acute phase. A gradual return is possible on medical advice, reviewing backhand technique and equipment if necessary.

Can a CBD balm cure epicondylitis?

No. No cosmetic may claim to treat a tendinopathy. A balm fits into a massage ritual, alongside physiotherapy, which remains the mainstay of management.

Cold or heat for epicondylitis?

In the acute phase, cold is generally recommended. Heat can be used in the chronic phase for muscle relaxation before exercises.