Golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow are not the same injury, but they are closely related conditions. Both are classified as overuse injuries, medically known as epicondylitis or tendinopathy. They involve the tendons in the forearm where they attach to the elbow bone. These conditions cause pain, tenderness, and weakness, often stemming from repetitive motions that strain the tendon tissue over time.
The Critical Anatomical Difference
The difference between the two conditions lies in the specific location of the affected tendons. The humerus features two bony bumps called epicondyles, one on the outside and one on the inside. These bumps serve as attachment points for the forearm muscles that control wrist and finger movement.
Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, involves the tendons attaching to the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow. These are the common extensor tendons, which are responsible for bending the wrist and fingers backward.
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow. These are the common flexor tendons, the group of muscles that allows you to bend your wrist forward and clench your fingers into a fist.
Distinct Symptoms and Causes
For tennis elbow, the hallmark symptom is pain centered on the outside of the elbow, which often radiates down the forearm towards the wrist. This pain is worsened by movements that require gripping or extending the wrist, such as shaking hands, lifting a coffee cup, or turning a screwdriver.
The causes of tennis elbow are often found in repetitive tasks requiring forceful wrist extension. Examples include carpentry, plumbing, or prolonged use of a computer mouse and keyboard.
Golfer’s elbow presents with pain and tenderness concentrated on the inner side of the elbow, sometimes extending down the forearm toward the hand. Pain is primarily triggered by movements that involve forcefully flexing the wrist or tightly clenching the fingers. Simple actions like lifting a heavy object palm-up, throwing a ball, or swinging a golf club can provoke discomfort.
Despite its name, golfer’s elbow is frequently caused by occupational or recreational activities that demand repetitive wrist flexion and gripping. This includes tasks like using certain hand tools, performing weightlifting exercises, or engaging in throwing sports such as baseball or javelin.
Common Treatment Approaches and Recovery
The initial approach to treatment for both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow is largely the same. Treatment focuses on reducing pain and allowing the damaged tendon tissue to heal. This begins with rest, meaning the avoidance of specific activities that aggravate the condition.
Applying ice to the tender area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day helps manage pain and swelling. A counterforce brace or strap worn on the forearm can relieve tension on the affected tendon attachment point. Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be used temporarily to reduce discomfort.
Once the initial acute pain subsides, physical therapy focuses on specific stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles. For tennis elbow, exercises target the extensor muscles, while golfer’s elbow requires focused strengthening of the flexor muscles. These exercises, particularly eccentric strengthening, help to remodel the tendon and build resilience against future injury. If pain persists despite conservative measures, consult a healthcare professional to discuss further options, such as targeted injections or advanced therapies.