Decreased grip strength and pain along the lateral side of the elbow are signs of what condition?

The symptoms of decreased grip strength and pain along the lateral side of the elbow are characteristic of tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis. This condition typically arises from overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, especially those involved in wrist extension. As the condition progresses, inflammation and microtears develop in the tendons, leading to pain and reduced strength in gripping actions, which is commonly felt on the outer side of the elbow.

In contrast, golfer’s elbow, which affects the inner side of the elbow, would present with different symptoms and location of pain. Arthritis could cause pain and reduced mobility in various joints, but it is not specifically associated with increased pain on the lateral side of the elbow or sole grip strength decrease. Carpal tunnel syndrome primarily involves symptoms related to wrist and hand function, such as numbness and tingling, which do not align with the pain location and grip strength issues seen with tennis elbow. Thus, the distinctive nature of the symptoms supports the diagnosis of tennis elbow as the accurate answer.