Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are common overuse injuries affecting the tendons in the forearm and elbow. Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendons on the outer side of the elbow become inflamed due to repetitive wrist and arm motions, such as those involved in racquet sports, typing, or using tools. This condition causes pain on the outside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm and worsen with gripping, lifting, or other wrist-extension movements. Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow. It’s often caused by repetitive wrist flexion, such as gripping or swinging a golf club, but can also occur with other activities involving forceful wrist or finger motions. Golfer’s elbow results in pain on the inside of the elbow, which can radiate down the forearm and worsen with wrist or finger flexion.
A Physical Therapist (PT) can help manage both tennis and golfer’s elbow by addressing pain, inflammation, and the root causes of these injuries. After assessing the injury, a PT will create a personalized treatment plan to relieve symptoms and improve function.
