Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

This guide covers what DVA looks for when assessing this condition, including the relevant Statement of Principles factors, the evidence you should gather, and common preparation tips. Expand each section for more detail.

You are reviewing the condition-specific guidance to understand what evidence and preparation DVA expects.

PhysicalVETS Act 2026

Also known as: Tennis ElbowLateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow caused by overuse of the forearm muscles. In veterans it is commonly caused by repetitive gripping, lifting, and manual handling tasks during service.

DVA uses Statements of Principles () from the Repatriation Medical Authority to determine whether a condition can be linked to service. For Tennis Elbow, DVA generally considers the following factors:

Performing forceful or repetitive activities involving extension or gripping of the affected hand or forearm for at least 100 hours within a 12-month period
Having a direct trauma to the lateral epicondyle during service
Performing activities involving forceful gripping or twisting movements

Reference: SoP No. 51 of 2019 (Reasonable Hypothesis) / SoP No. 52 of 2019 (Balance of Probabilities). RH applies to operational/warlike service; BoP applies to peacetime service. Verify at rma.gov.au.Source: rma.gov.au — verify this directly with DVA for your circumstances.

DVA uses two different standards of proof depending on your type of service. Understanding which applies to you can help you prepare your evidence.

Reasonable Hypothesis (RH)Applies to: operational, warlike, or non-warlike serviceUnder the Reasonable Hypothesis standard (operational/warlike/non-warlike service), DVA generally considers that performing repetitive gripping, lifting, or forearm-intensive activities during service — with clinical onset within a relevant period — is sufficient to raise a reasonable hypothesis.

Balance of Probabilities (BoP)Applies to: peacetime serviceUnder the Balance of Probabilities standard (peacetime service), DVA generally considers that the veteran must show it is more likely than not that lateral epicondylitis was caused or materially contributed to by repetitive activities during service.

In plain EnglishIf you had operational or warlike service, the Reasonable Hypothesis (RH) standard applies — this is a lower threshold. If your service was peacetime only, the stricter Balance of Probabilities (BoP) standard applies. SoP instruments are updated periodically by the RMA. Always verify the current instrument at rma.gov.au/sops.

Benefit of the doubt: DVA is legally required to give you the benefit of the doubt if evidence is evenly balanced (s119 , s335 ). Learn more

DVA generally considers the standard of proof based on your service type. Verify this directly with DVA or a qualified advocate.

Required

Clinical diagnosis of lateral epicondylitisA diagnosis from your GP or specialist. Ultrasound can confirm tendon changes.How to get it: See your GP for assessment.Estimated time: 1-2 weeks

Service records showing repetitive arm activitiesDocumentation of your trade duties involving gripping, lifting, or manual work.How to get it: Request from Defence.Estimated time: 4-8 weeks

Medical nexus reportA report linking your elbow condition to service activities.How to get it: Ask your GP or specialist.Estimated time: 2-4 weeks

Medical nexus statement (from your doctor)

A medical opinion linking your lateral epicondylitis to repetitive service activities.

What to ask your doctor

I am making a DVA claim for lateral epicondylitis. My trade involved repetitive gripping and manual handling. Could you write a report?

Personal statement (your own words)

Describe the repetitive activities, onset, and current impact.

Suggested structure

Your military trade and manual tasks
Specific repetitive activities involving gripping and forearm use
Tools and equipment used regularly
When elbow pain started
Current impact

Common mistakes to avoid

✗Not being specific about activities and hours spent

Treatments DVA may cover

Physiotherapy and tendon rehabilitation
Elbow braces and supports
Pain management
Corticosteroid or PRP injections if indicated
Surgery in severe cases

Next steps to consider

Proceed to Permanent Impairment claim once stabilised
Claim the other arm if affected
Consider related conditions (shoulder, wrist)

Actual entitlements depend on individual DVA assessment. This is indicative only.

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You do not need to have everything ready before you start. Use these tools to work through the process at your own pace.

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Official + GuidanceVerified March 2026

This page combines official DVA information with platform-authored guidance. Official sources are cited where applicable.

SoP factors sourced from RMA. Guidance text explains official processes in plain language.

RMA — Statements of Principles

This is a guide onlyThis information is a free guide. It is not legal advice, medical advice, or financial advice. Always verify with DVA directly or with a qualified advocate before lodging a claim.

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Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

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