Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow: How to Tell the Difference and Treat It

If you’re experiencing elbow pain, you might be wondering whether you have a golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow. While both conditions cause discomfort around the elbow joint, they affect different sides: tennis elbow causes pain on the outer (lateral) part of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inner (medial) side. Understanding the location of your pain, along with your symptoms and activities, can help you identify which condition you have and pursue the right treatment approach.

At Healyos Physiotherapy in Pune, we see patients with both conditions regularly—and the good news is that with proper diagnosis and treatment, most people recover fully. Whether you prefer visiting our clinic or receiving care in the comfort of your home, our team is here to guide you through effective, evidence-based recovery strategies.

What Are Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow?

Both tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are overuse injuries that affect the tendons connecting your forearm muscles to your elbow. Despite their sports-related names, you don’t need to play tennis or golf to develop these conditions.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outside of your elbow. These tendons connect to the muscles that extend your wrist and fingers. When these tendons become inflamed or develop small tears from repetitive stress, you experience pain on the lateral (outer) side of your elbow.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive gripping activities
• Computer work with poor ergonomics
• Painting or carpentry
• Playing racquet sports
• Using hand tools frequently

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow affects the tendons on the inside of your elbow. These tendons attach to the muscles that flex your wrist and fingers. When damaged through overuse, they cause pain on the medial (inner) side of your elbow.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive wrist flexion movements
• Heavy lifting with improper technique
• Throwing sports
• Rock climbing
• Golf (especially with poor swing mechanics)

Key Differences: How to Tell Them Apart

Understanding the differences between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow helps you seek appropriate treatment.

Location of Pain

The most obvious difference is where the pain occurs:

• Tennis elbow pain is felt on the outer (lateral) side of the elbow and may radiate down the forearm
• Golfer’s elbow pain is felt on the inner (medial) side of the elbow and can extend toward the wrist

Movements That Trigger Pain

Different activities worsen each condition:

Tennis elbow symptoms worsen with:

• Gripping objects (like a coffee cup or handshake)
• Extending the wrist backward
• Turning a doorknob
• Lifting objects with palm facing down

Golfer’s elbow symptoms worsen with:

• Flexing the wrist forward
• Making a fist
• Picking up objects with palm facing up
• Pulling or lifting movements

Affected Muscle Groups

• Tennis elbow affects the wrist extensor muscles (muscles that lift your hand upward)
• Golfer’s elbow affects the wrist flexor muscles (muscles that bend your hand downward)

Symptoms to Watch For

Tennis Elbow Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness on the outer elbow
• Weakened grip strength
• Difficulty extending the wrist or fingers
• Pain that worsens with forearm activity
• Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning
• Burning sensation radiating down the forearm

Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow
• Weakness in the wrist and hand
• Stiffness in the elbow joint
• Numbness or tingling in the fingers (especially ring and little fingers)
• Pain when making a fist
• Difficulty with gripping and lifting

Diagnosis: What to Expect

At Healyos Physiotherapy, our thorough assessment includes:

1. Medical history review: We’ll discuss your activities, occupation, and when symptoms began
2. Physical examination: We’ll test your elbow’s range of motion, strength, and identify tender areas
3. Functional tests: Specific movements help us determine which tendons are affected
4. Imaging (if needed): While most cases are diagnosed clinically, X-rays or ultrasound may be recommended to rule out other conditions

Treatment Options That Work

The good news? Both conditions respond well to conservative treatment. Surgery is rarely needed.

Initial Treatment: RICE Protocol

When symptoms first appear:

• Rest: Avoid activities that aggravate the pain
• Ice: Apply ice packs for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily
• Compression: Use an elbow strap or brace to reduce strain
• Elevation: Keep your arm elevated when possible

Physiotherapy Treatment

Physiotherapy is the cornerstone of effective treatment for both conditions. At Healyos, we create personalized treatment plans that include:

Manual Therapy

• Soft tissue massage to reduce tension
• Joint mobilization to improve movement
• Trigger point release

Therapeutic Exercises

• Stretching exercises to improve flexibility
• Strengthening exercises to rebuild tendon strength
• Eccentric exercises (proven most effective for tendon healing)
• Progressive resistance training

Pain Management Techniques

• Ultrasound therapy
• Dry needling
• Taping techniques
• Activity modification guidance

Ergonomic Assessment

• Workplace setup evaluation
• Proper technique training
• Movement pattern correction

Home Treatment Strategies

Between physiotherapy sessions, you can support your recovery:

• Gentle stretching: Perform prescribed stretches 2-3 times daily
• Gradual strengthening: Follow your physiotherapist’s exercise program
• Activity modification: Adjust how you perform daily tasks
• Proper warm-up: Always warm up before physical activities
• Use of braces: Counterforce braces can reduce strain during activities

When to Consider Other Treatments

If conservative treatment doesn’t provide relief after 6-12 months, your physiotherapist may recommend:

• Corticosteroid injections (for temporary pain relief)
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections
• Consultation with an orthopedic specialist

Prevention: Protecting Your Elbows

Whether you’re recovering from tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, or want to prevent these conditions, follow these strategies:

Strengthen Your Forearms

• Perform regular wrist strengthening exercises
• Build up grip strength gradually
• Include shoulder and upper back exercises

Use Proper Technique

• Learn correct form for sports and work activities
• Take lessons if you play racquet sports or golf
• Use appropriate equipment (proper grip size, racquet weight)

Take Breaks

• Avoid prolonged repetitive movements
• Alternate tasks throughout the day
• Stretch regularly during long activities

Ergonomic Adjustments

• Set up your workspace correctly
• Use ergonomic tools and equipment
• Maintain neutral wrist positions

Gradual Progression

• Increase activity intensity slowly
• Don’t ignore early warning signs
• Allow adequate rest between intense sessions

Key Takeaways

• Tennis elbow causes pain on the outer elbow; golfer’s elbow causes pain on the inner elbow
• Both conditions result from repetitive stress and overuse of forearm tendons
• Location of pain and specific movements that trigger discomfort help differentiate the two
• Conservative treatment, especially physiotherapy, is highly effective for both conditions
• Early diagnosis and proper treatment prevent chronic pain and complications
• Prevention strategies include proper technique, adequate rest, and gradual strengthening
• Healyos Physiotherapy in Pune offers expert treatment both in-clinic and at home

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still exercise with tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow?

Yes, but with modifications. Avoid activities that directly aggravate your elbow pain while maintaining overall fitness through activities like walking, cycling, or lower body exercises. Your physiotherapist can design a safe exercise program that promotes healing while keeping you active. As symptoms improve, you’ll gradually reintroduce arm activities under professional guidance.

How long does recovery typically take?

Recovery time varies depending on severity and adherence to treatment. Mild cases may improve in 6-8 weeks, while more severe or chronic conditions might take 3-6 months. Consistency with physiotherapy exercises and activity modifications significantly influences healing time. Most patients see noticeable improvement within the first few weeks of starting proper treatment.

Is surgery ever necessary for these conditions?

Surgery is rarely needed—approximately 95% of patients recover with conservative treatment. Surgery might be considered only after 6-12 months of comprehensive non-surgical treatment fails to provide relief. The procedure involves removing damaged tissue and reattaching a healthy tendon. However, with proper physiotherapy and patience, most people avoid surgery altogether.

Can both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow occur simultaneously?

While uncommon, it’s possible to have both conditions at the same time, especially if you engage in activities involving repetitive arm movements. Some people also develop one condition after compensating for the other. A thorough physiotherapy assessment will identify all affected areas and create a comprehensive treatment plan addressing both sides of the elbow if necessary.

Will wearing an elbow brace help my condition?

Yes, counterforce braces can be helpful, especially during activities that stress your elbow. These braces work by distributing pressure away from the affected tendon. However, they’re most effective when combined with physiotherapy—not as a standalone treatment. Your physiotherapist will show you proper brace placement and advise when to wear it. Long-term recovery depends on strengthening exercises, not just bracing.