Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) is a non-invasive treatment method that uses mechanical energy to help restore biological tissue. Recently, the treatment targets have expanded to include not only musculoskeletal injuries such as plantar fasciitis and lateral epicondylitis, which are typical treatment targets, but also peripheral nerve damage, diabetic foot ulcers, and osteoarthritis. However, the therapeutic effect of ESWT has not yet been proven even for lateral epicondylitis. The purpose of this article is to review recent literature on ESWT for lateral epicondylitis and to suggest more effective treatment options.