BLOG

Whether you are an athlete or just someone doing repeated chores, elbow discomfort is a frequent ailment that can greatly affect your everyday activities. Two of the most frequent causes of elbow pain are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. While their names suggest a connection to specific sports, these conditions can affect anyone.

What is a Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically termed lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by inflammation or microtears in the tendons on the outer part of the elbow. It typically results from repetitive wrist and forearm movements that strain these tendons. Despite its name, tennis elbow isn’t limited to tennis players—it can affect anyone involved in activities requiring repeated gripping or wrist extension, such as typing, painting, or gardening.

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain on the elbow’s outside side (lateral epicondyle). 
• Weakness in grip strength.
• Discomfort during activities like lifting objects or straightening the wrist.

What is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow. Repetitive movements stressing the muscles in charge of wrist and finger flexing cause this disease. While golfers are often affected due to their swing mechanics, this condition can also occur in individuals who perform activities such as throwing sports, weightlifting, or using tools like hammers.

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

• Tenderness and pain on the inside elbow (medial epicondyle). 
• Stiffness in the elbow joint.
• Tingling sensations or numbness in fingers (especially ring and little fingers).
• Weakness during gripping or wrist flexion movements.

Key Differences Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow

 Tennis elbow condition affects the outer of the elbow and is linked to wrist extension, like lifting. The golfer’s elbow involves the inner elbow and is related to wrist flexion, such as gripping. Though both involve tendon overuse, they arise from different muscle groups and motions. Recognising these distinctions helps in identifying the condition accurately.

Treatment Options for Both Conditions

Managing tennis elbow and Golfer’s elbow involves similar approaches:

• Rest: Minimize activities that aggravate your symptoms to allow healing.
• Ice Therapy: Use ice packs to relieve inflammation and discomfort for 15-20 minutes multiple times each day.
• Medications: OTC anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort.
• Physical Therapy: Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises guided by a physiotherapist can restore tendon health and prevent recurrence.
• Bracing: Counterforce braces can reduce strain on affected tendons during physical activity.

In extreme situations when conservative therapy fails, corticosteroid injections or surgical procedures may be explored.

 Preventing Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow

Preventative interventions can minimise your chance of getting the following conditions:

• Warm up before engaging in any physical tasks that need repetitive arm motions.
• Use proper techniques when performing tasks like lifting weights or swinging a racket/golf club.
• Incorporate strengthening exercises for forearm muscles into your routine to improve resilience against strain.
• Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks to avoid overuse injuries.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are painful yet manageable conditions that require proper care and attention. Consult an orthopaedic expert for a complete examination and individualised treatment plan suited to your requirements if you are suffering ongoing elbow discomfort. Early treatment can help you to completely recover! 

For enquiries and online appointments, send a message to www.BangaloreShoulderInstitute.com/contact

For informative videos related to Shoulder problems and their treatment options, Sports Injuries and other orthopedic conditions, visit our YouTube channel Bangalore Shoulder Institute – https://www.youtube.com/@BangaloreShoulderInstitute