If you’re dealing with persistent elbow pain, even simple tasks like lifting a coffee mug or typing can feel frustrating. It’s even worse when you don’t know the reason for your pain or how to manage it.
In many cases, conditions like tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are the source of this discomfort.
At Union County Orthopaedic Group, patients struggling with elbow pain benefit from decades of experience and compassionate care, which have made the practice a trusted choice since 1966. We prioritize accurate diagnoses and provide personalized treatment.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, results from overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons.
Symptoms include:
- Pain or burning affecting the outer part of the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Discomfort when lifting or gripping objects
Despite its name, tennis elbow isn’t limited to athletes. It’s common among people who perform repetitive tasks, such as typing, painting, or using tools.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the inside of the elbow. Like tennis elbow, it’s caused by repetitive stress, but it involves different muscles and tendons.
Symptoms may include:
- Pain in the inner elbow
- Stiffness or weakness in the wrist
- Tingling or numbness in the fingers
This condition can affect anyone—not just golfers—especially those with jobs or hobbies that involve repetitive wrist flexion.
Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow
While both conditions are associated with overuse, their location and symptoms differ:
- Pain location:
- Tennis elbow → outer elbow
- Golfer’s elbow → inner elbow
- Movement triggers:
- Tennis elbow → wrist extension and gripping
- Golfer’s elbow → wrist flexion
- Affected tendons:
- Each issue impacts a different group of forearm tendons.
Understanding these distinctions helps guide appropriate treatment.
How Are These Conditions Treated?
Many cases of tennis and golfer’s elbow improve with conservative care. Common solutions include:
- Rest and activity modification
- Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch muscles
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing or support straps
- In some cases, injections or more advanced therapies
Get Expert Care for Elbow Pain Today
Knowing whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow is the first step toward relief. With the right diagnosis and care plan, most people can return to their normal routines without ongoing pain.
Call Union County Orthopaedic Group today to book an appointment at one of our convenient locations:
- Linden Office (908) 486-1111
- Clark Office (732) 388-1761
- Union Office (908) 486-4400
- Union Physical Therapy (908) 486-4457
- Clark Physical Therapy (908) 486-4457