Golfer’s Elbow vs Tennis Elbow: Understanding the Difference

Elbow pain can make everyday tasks difficult, from lifting objects to playing sports. Two of the most common causes of chronic elbow pain are golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow. While their names sound similar, these conditions affect different parts of the elbow and involve different tendon groups.

Understanding the difference between golfer’s elbow vs tennis elbow can help you recognise symptoms early and seek appropriate orthopaedic care.

What Is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow, medically referred to as medial epicondylitis, causes pain on the inside of the elbow. It develops when the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle become irritated or damaged due to repetitive stress or overuse.

Despite the name, golfer’s elbow affects more than just golfers. It is commonly seen in individuals whose activities involve repeated gripping or wrist-flexing motions.

Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow

• Golf and other swinging sports

• Weightlifting

• Manual labour or repetitive lifting

• Occupations requiring frequent hand or wrist use

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

• Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow

• Stiffness in the elbow joint

• Weakness in the hands or wrists

• Tingling or numbness extending into the fingers

• Pain that worsens with gripping or lifting

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, affects the outside of the elbow. This condition occurs when the tendons responsible for wrist and finger extension become overworked or strained.

Like golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow is not limited to athletes and often develops due to repetitive arm and wrist movements.

Common Causes of Tennis Elbow

• Tennis and racquet sports

• Repetitive computer or mouse use

• Carpentry, painting, or tool use

• Improper lifting techniques

Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain or burning on the outer elbow

• Weak grip strength

• Increased pain when extending the wrist

• Discomfort when turning doorknobs or shaking hands

Golfer’s Elbow vs Tennis Elbow: Key Differences

While both conditions involve tendon overuse, the primary difference lies in where the pain is located and which tendons are affected.

An accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure proper treatment and recovery.

Treatment Options for Elbow Pain

Most cases of golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow respond well to non-surgical orthopaedic treatment, particularly when addressed early.

Conservative Treatment Options

• Activity modification and rest

• Anti-inflammatory medications

• Targeted physical therapy

• Bracing or elbow supports

• Ice or heat therapy

Advanced Orthopaedic Care

If symptoms persist, additional treatments may be recommended, including:

• Injection therapies

• Ultrasound-guided treatments

• Specialised rehabilitation programmes

Surgery is rarely required but may be considered for severe or long-standing cases that do not improve with conservative care.

When to See an Orthopaedic Specialist

You should consider seeing an orthopaedic specialist if:

• Elbow pain lasts longer than a few weeks

• Pain interferes with work, sports, or daily activities

• You experience weakness, numbness, or limited movement

• Symptoms do not improve with home treatment

Early evaluation can help prevent further tendon damage and speed recovery.

Expert Orthopaedic Elbow Care at OIBortho

At OIBortho, our specialists provide comprehensive orthopaedic care for elbow conditions, including golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow. We focus on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment plans, and long-term recovery to help patients return to the activities they enjoy.

If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain, call OIBortho at 732-800-9000 or schedule an appointment online 24/7 .