Golfer's elbow and tennis elbow are common injuries causing discomfort around the elbow. Although they share certain similarities, they also have important distinctions. Identifying the specific condition you're dealing with can help guide you toward the appropriate treatment.

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What are Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow?

Medial epicondylitis, referred to as golfer's elbow, and lateral epicondylitis, known as tennis elbow, are frequent overuse injuries causing pain and inflammation near the epicondyles. These bony prominences are situated on the inner and outer sides of the elbow, serving as points of attachment for forearm muscle groups.

Golfer's elbow affects the medial epicondyle and forearm flexor muscles, while tennis elbow impacts the lateral epicondyle and forearm extensor muscles.

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Symptoms

Individuals with golfer's or tennis elbow encounter pain and inflammation at the medial or lateral epicondyle, along with discomfort, tightness, and soreness in the forearm flexor or extensor muscle groups. This pain is frequently felt during stretching and activation of the affected muscle group, as well as when gripping or holding objects.

Golfer's elbow often involves pain when stretching the wrist into extension and performing active wrist flexion, while tennis elbow leads to discomfort when stretching the wrist into flexion and performing active wrist extension.

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Treatment

The initial treatment approach for golfer's and tennis elbow involves reducing irritation in the affected region. This is achieved by:

• Steering clear of activities that worsen the condition, such as playing sports, weight training, and carrying heavy objects.

• Minimizing over-gripping in daily tasks, such as gripping the steering wheel too firmly or carrying heavy items with the affected side.

• Applying ice to manage inflammation, pain, and swelling.

• Utilizing a forearm strap or brace to aid in tendon off-loading and symptom management during activities.

Once irritation is reduced, the next step involves management through physical therapy. In some cases, an orthopedic doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections, either before or after commencing this type of rehabilitation. Physical therapy will include:

• Soft tissue and joint mobilization to reduce inflammation, irritation, swelling, and stiffness in the affected tissues, including joints and muscles.

• Light stretching exercises targeting the affected muscles. 

• Light strengthening exercises to load the affected muscles and tendons. This typically begins with eccentric exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of the muscles by focusing on the lowering phase of the exercise motion. You start with a very light weight within a tolerable pain range and gradually increase the weight, reps, and sets, as appropriate.

• Strengthening supporting muscle groups like the shoulder and shoulder blade to maintain overall arm strength and stability during sports and other activities.

• Improving movement mechanics with sports such as refining tennis or golf swings to improve movement coordination and decrease excess stress and strain on the forearm tendon and muscles. This is most often done through gradual return-to-sport via sports-specific training as well as graded return-to-play on the court or course.

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Improve Your Golfer’s or Tennis Elbow at MAVEN

Understanding the differences between golfer's and tennis elbow is important for effective treatment. Proper diagnosis and tailored therapy can lead to a swift recovery and return to an active lifestyle. Whether you're seeking relief from golfer's elbow or tennis elbow, the dedicated team of physical therapists at MAVEN are here to provide expert care and support on your journey towards healing and well-being. Book a consultation today!