Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow: Understanding Chronic Tendon Pain

By DR.AHMED RAOUF -

 

Tennis Elbow Pain
Tennis Elbow Pain
Introduction

Chronic elbow pain is a common complaint that can significantly affect daily activities such as typing, lifting, or even holding a cup of coffee. Two frequently misunderstood conditions are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. Despite their athletic names, these injuries often occur in non-athletes as well.

Understanding the differences between these conditions—their causes, symptoms, and treatment options—is essential for proper management and effective recovery.

What Are Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow?

Both conditions involve inflammation or micro-tears in the tendons that attach muscles to the elbow, but they affect different tendons and sides of the elbow.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
Tennis Elbow Pain
Tennis Elbow 

  • Location: Outside (lateral) part of the elbow

  • Affected Tendons: Tendons of the forearm extensors

  • Common Symptoms: Pain or tenderness on the outer elbow, difficulty gripping objects, pain when lifting, twisting, or shaking hands

  • Misconception: Tennis is not required—repetitive activities like typing, using tools, or painting can cause tennis elbow

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
Tennis Elbow Pain
Tennis Elbow Pain

  • Location: Inside (medial) part of the elbow

  • Affected Tendons: Tendons of the forearm flexors

  • Common Symptoms: Pain or tenderness on the inner elbow, wrist flexion may worsen discomfort, difficulty gripping or lifting

  • Misconception: Golf is not necessary—repetitive tasks such as lifting, hammering, or even cooking can trigger symptoms

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, both conditions are tendinopathies, meaning the tendons develop microscopic tears due to overuse and repetitive strain.

Causes and Risk Factors

Although these conditions are common in athletes, several everyday activities can contribute to tendon overload:

  • Repetitive hand or wrist movements: Typing, using a computer mouse, carrying objects

    Tennis Elbow causes
    tennis elbow 

  • Manual labor: Painting, carpentry, plumbing

  • Poor ergonomics: Incorrect keyboard, desk height, or lifting technique

  • Age-related tendon degeneration: Tendons lose elasticity over time, making them more prone to injury

Essentially, any repetitive stress on the forearm muscles can lead to tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, even in individuals who don’t play sports.


Key Differences Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow

FeatureTennis ElbowGolfer’s Elbow
Location of painOuter elbowInner elbow
Tendons involvedExtensor tendonsFlexor tendons
Aggravating movementsLifting, twisting wrist outwardWrist flexion, gripping, bending wrist inward
Common inAges 30–50Ages 30–50

These differences are critical for diagnosis and treatment planning.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Fortunately, most cases of tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow can be managed without surgery. Modern non-surgical approaches focus on reducing inflammation, promoting tendon healing, and improving function.

1. Rest and Activity Modification

  • Reduce or temporarily avoid activities that trigger pain

  • Ergonomic adjustments at work or home

2. Physical Therapy

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for forearm muscles

  • Eccentric loading exercises have been shown to improve tendon healing

  • Gradual return to activity to prevent recurrence

3. Bracing and Supports

  • Counterforce braces or straps reduce stress on the affected tendon

  • Can be worn during repetitive activities to minimize discomfort

4. Pain Management

  • Ice application to reduce inflammation

  • Short courses of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), if recommended by a doctor

5. Regenerative Therapies (Optional)

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections for chronic cases

  • Promote tissue healing in tendons that have not responded to conventional therapy

According to the Mayo Clinic, most patients experience improvement with a combination of rest, physical therapy, and activity modification, usually within 6–12 weeks.

When to Seek Further Medical Evaluation

Patients should consult an orthopedic specialist if:

  • Pain persists longer than 6–12 weeks despite conservative measures

  • Pain significantly limits daily activities

  • There is noticeable weakness in the hand or forearm

  • Symptoms interfere with work or sports performance

Early intervention helps prevent chronic tendon degeneration and may reduce the need for invasive procedures.

stretch exercise of wrist
stretch execise
Preventive Measures

To reduce the risk of tendon injuries:

  • Maintain proper ergonomics at work and during daily activities

  • Perform forearm stretching and strengthening exercises regularly

  • Avoid sudden increases in repetitive activity intensity

  • Use proper technique when lifting, swinging, or performing repetitive tasks

These simple measures can protect the tendons and reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Conclusion

Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are common causes of chronic elbow pain that can affect both athletes and non-athletes. While they involve different tendons and locations, the underlying mechanism—overuse and tendon micro-tears—is similar.

Modern non-surgical treatments, including rest, physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification, are effective for most patients. Early recognition and intervention are key to preventing chronic pain and restoring full function.

Patients experiencing persistent elbow pain should consult an orthopedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plan.

Medical Disclaimer

This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individuals experiencing persistent elbow pain should seek evaluation from a qualified healthcare professional.

References

  1. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons – Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow Overview

  2. Mayo Clinic – Lateral and Medial Epicondylitis Treatment

  3. National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases – Tendon Injuries and Overuse Conditions


About the Author: Dr. Ahmed Raouf

Dr. Ahmed Raouf is a highly experienced Orthopedic and Joint Surgery Consultant with over two decades of dedicated practice. His career includes significant tenures at prominent hospitals within the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Mousat Hospital in KSA. He specializes in Knee Osteoarthritis & Joint Replacement, Sports Injuries & Ligament Reconstruction, Fracture Management & Trauma Surgery, and Chronic Back & Shoulder Pain Solutions.


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