Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are both overuse injuries that affect the tendons in the forearm, causing pain and discomfort. Despite their names, these conditions can occur in individuals who do not play tennis or golf. Here’s an overview of each condition:
Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis):
- Definition: Tennis elbow is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow, specifically the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer part of the elbow).
- Causes:
- Overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, typically from repetitive gripping and wrist extension motions.
- Activities like playing tennis (hence the name), but also other sports, manual labor, or even activities like typing and using a computer mouse.
- Symptoms:
- Pain on the outer part of the elbow, especially during activities that involve gripping or wrist movement.
- Weakness in the affected arm.
- Difficulty with grasping objects or turning doorknobs.
- Diagnosis: Diagnosis is usually based on a physical examination, medical history, and a discussion of symptoms. Imaging tests are not typically necessary but may be used to rule out other conditions.
- Treatment:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
- Ice: Applying ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Medications like ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises and techniques to strengthen forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
- Brace or strap: Wearing a forearm strap or brace can help alleviate stress on the affected tendons.
- Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a healthcare provider may administer corticosteroid injections to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Modification of activities: Adjusting technique or equipment used in sports or work activities to reduce strain on the affected tendons.
- If conservative treatments fail, some cases may require surgical intervention to remove damaged tissue or reattach tendons.
Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis):
- Definition: Golfer’s elbow is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation of the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, specifically the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inner part of the elbow).
- Causes:
- Overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons, typically from repetitive gripping and wrist flexion motions.
- Activities like golf, but also other sports, manual labor, and everyday activities like lifting objects.
- Symptoms:
- Pain on the inner part of the elbow, especially during gripping activities.
- Weakness in the affected arm.
- Difficulty with grasping objects or twisting movements.
- Diagnosis: Similar to tennis elbow, diagnosis is typically based on a physical examination, medical history, and discussion of symptoms. Imaging tests are not usually necessary.
- Treatment:
- Rest: Avoiding activities that exacerbate symptoms.
- Ice: Applying ice to the affected area to reduce inflammation.
- NSAIDs: Medications like ibuprofen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Exercises and techniques to strengthen forearm muscles and improve flexibility.
- Brace or strap: Wearing a forearm strap or brace can help alleviate stress on the affected tendons.
- Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be used to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Activity modification: Adjusting technique or equipment used in sports or work activities to reduce strain on the affected tendons.
- Surgery: Surgical intervention is rarely needed but may be considered if conservative treatments are not effective.