Don’t Let Elbow Pain Slow You Down

Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow: Symptoms & Treatments

Elbow pain is a common complaint among athletes, office workers, homemakers, and individuals involved in repetitive hand or arm activities. Two of the most frequent causes are Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow. Despite their names, these conditions are not limited to sports players.

Early recognition and proper treatment can prevent long-term pain and loss of arm function.

Understanding the Conditions

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to inflammation or degeneration of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow.

It is commonly seen in:

  • Office workers using computers extensively

  • People doing repetitive lifting or gripping

  • Tennis and racquet sport players

What Is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, caused by repetitive wrist flexion or gripping activities.

Commonly affects:

  • Golfers and throwing athletes

  • Plumbers, carpenters, electricians

  • Individuals performing repetitive hand work

Causes and Risk Factors

  • Repetitive arm, wrist, or hand movements

  • Poor ergonomics at work

  • Incorrect sports technique

  • Sudden increase in physical activity

  • Weak forearm muscles

Treatment Options

1. Rest and Activity Modification

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2. Ice and Pain Relief

Reducing activities that aggravate the pain is the first and most important step. Continuing repetitive strain delays healing.

3. Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is a cornerstone of treatment and may include:

  • Stretching and strengthening exercises

  • Ultrasound or shockwave therapy

  • Posture and ergonomic correction

4. Braces and Supports

Elbow straps or braces help reduce strain on affected tendons during activity.

5. Injections (When Needed)

For persistent pain, treatment options may include:

  • Corticosteroid injections

  • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy

These are considered when conservative treatment fails.

6. Surgical Treatment (Rare)

Surgery is required only in a small percentage of patients when symptoms persist despite long-term conservative management.

Recovery Timeline

  • Mild cases: 4–6 weeks

  • Moderate cases: 2–3 months

  • Chronic cases: May take longer and require advanced treatment

Early intervention significantly improves recovery outcomes.

Prevention Tips

  • Maintain proper workstation ergonomics

  • Take frequent breaks from repetitive work

  • Strengthen forearm and wrist muscles

  • Warm up before sports or physical activity

  • Use correct technique in sports and lifting

When to Consult an Orthopedic Surgeon

You should seek professional evaluation if:

  • Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks

  • Pain interferes with work or sleep

  • Grip strength is reduced

  • Symptoms keep recurring

Final Advice from an Orthopedic Surgeon

Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow are treatable conditions, especially when addressed early. Ignoring elbow pain or self-treating without guidance can prolong recovery and affect arm function.

Listen to your elbow pain — early care leads to faster recovery and stronger results.