Tennis Elbow, Golfer's Elbow

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Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are conditions where the tendons are overused due to repetitive motions on the arm or the wrist. Despite the names, it is not just athletes who develop elbow pains; anyone whose work includes repetitive motions, such as dentists, carpenters, chefs, are at risk for these conditions. Due to the repeated stress, the tendons may develop small tears in the tendon. For tennis elbow, the pain can be felt on the forearm; whereas for golfer's elbow, the pain is more prominent on the inside of the elbow radiating down the arm.

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Both lateral and medial epicondylitis can cause pain on everyday movements (i.e. opening doors, driving, holding a cup of coffee), and the pain can be very constant. Not only is the elbow painful, but the range of motion will be limited on the arm and the wrist. Sometimes there can also be stiffness or a tingling sensation, especially when making a fist with the hand.

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When diagnosed with either a tennis elbow or a golfer's elbow, it is important to rest the injured arm. The condition can be severely aggravated by pushing through the pain of the daily repetitive movements. Bracing will help to reduce the stress on the affected tendons. Combined with physical therapy, it can reduce the inflammation and swelling in the tendons. Guided rehabilitation exercises that gently stretch and gradually strengthen the muscles will lead the way to a full recovery.