Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are two common conditions that cause pain around the elbow joint. Despite their names, they are not limited to athletes. Many people develop these conditions due to repetitive motions at work, in daily activities, or through hobbies that strain the forearm muscles and tendons.
Both issues involve irritation of the tendons that attach to the elbow, but they affect different sides of the joint. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) impacts the outer side of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the inner side. The pain can spread into the forearm and wrist, often making everyday tasks challenging.
What is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated from repeated strain. Despite its association with tennis, it often appears in people who do not play sports at all. Typing, using hand tools, painting, or even carrying heavy bags can trigger the condition.
The main symptom is pain on the outer side of the elbow, which may worsen when lifting objects, shaking hands, turning a doorknob, or gripping items. Some people also notice weakness in the forearm, making it harder to hold or carry things.
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is similar but affects the inner side of the elbow. It develops when the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the bony bump inside the elbow become strained.
The pain is usually felt along the inner elbow and may spread into the forearm. Simple tasks like pouring from a jug, twisting the wrist, or swinging the arm can make symptoms worse. Weakness in grip strength is also a common complaint.
Why Do These Conditions Happen?
Both tennis and golfer’s elbow arise from repeated stress placed on the forearm muscles and tendons. Repetitive use of the arm without adequate rest or recovery gradually builds up small tears in the tendon tissue.
Some common causes include:
- Sports involving gripping and swinging motions (tennis, squash, golf, baseball).
- Occupations with repetitive wrist or arm use (carpenters, painters, mechanics, office workers).
- Everyday activities that strain the forearm include lifting groceries or frequent typing.
Age can also be a factor. These conditions are most common between the ages of 30 and 50, when tendons naturally become less flexible and more prone to injury.
Common Symptoms
The signs of tennis and golfer’s elbow often overlap, but their location helps tell them apart.
Tennis elbow symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow.
- Pain that worsens when gripping or lifting.
- Discomfort when twisting the wrist.
Golfer’s elbow symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow.
- Discomfort when bending the wrist forward or squeezing objects.
- Stiffness in the elbow joint.
Both conditions can lead to reduced strength in the hands and wrists, making daily tasks harder to manage.
How These Conditions Affect Daily Life
Living with tennis or golfer’s elbow can feel frustrating. Actions as simple as turning a key, lifting a kettle, or holding a steering wheel may cause sharp discomfort. Over time, many people unconsciously adjust their movements to avoid pain, which can lead to stiffness in other areas of the arm or shoulder.
Because the tendons involved play a role in gripping and wrist movement, these conditions interfere with both fine and large motor activities. Without addressing the root cause, the pain can linger for months and in some cases become chronic.
Approaches to Managing Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow
The first step is often identifying the activities that trigger the pain. Reducing or modifying repetitive motions gives the tendons a chance to recover. Applying ice, using supportive braces, and resting the arm may provide temporary Relief. Still, long-term improvement usually requires more targeted intervention.
Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles can help restore balance and reduce strain on the tendons. These movements need to be tailored to the severity of the condition and gradually progressed.
In some cases, practitioners use manual techniques such as soft tissue release, joint mobilization, or dry needling to improve blood flow and reduce tension in the affected area. Education on posture, ergonomics, and proper technique for sports or work activities also plays a vital role in preventing flare-ups.
Clinicians may consider other options, such as shockwave therapy or medical interventions, for individuals whose pain persists despite conservative care.
When to Seek Help
Suppose you experience ongoing elbow pain that interferes with your ability to work, exercise, or enjoy daily routines. In that case, it is worth having the condition assessed. Early attention can reduce the risk of long-term tendon irritation and prevent compensatory problems in other joints or muscles.
Take the Next Step
Elbow pain doesn’t have to hold you back. If you are dealing with tennis or golfer’s elbow and want professional guidance to return to your regular activities, reach out to our clinic today. Book an appointment and start your path toward improved movement and Relief.