Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are common conditions that cause pain and discomfort in the elbow due to overuse. These conditions are not exclusive to athletes; anyone who performs repetitive arm, elbow, or wrist movements is at risk. Understanding how to manage and treat these conditions effectively can help alleviate pain and restore function.

Understanding Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow

Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are both forms of tendinitis, involving inflammation of the tendons that attach to the elbow.

Tennis Elbow

• Location: Affects the tendons on the outside (lateral side) of the elbow.
• Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. Pain worsens with activities that involve lifting, gripping, or twisting the forearm.

Golfer’s Elbow

• Location: Affects the tendons on the inside (medial side) of the elbow.
• Symptoms: Pain and tenderness on the inner part of the elbow, which may extend down the forearm. Pain increases with activities that involve flexing the wrist or gripping.

Causes and Risk Factors

Both conditions are caused by overuse and repetitive stress on the tendons of the elbow. Common activities that can lead to these conditions include:

Sports

Activities like tennis, golf, and baseball that involve repetitive arm movements.

Occupational Tasks

Jobs that require repetitive motions, such as carpentry, painting, or typing.

Hobbies

Activities like gardening, knitting, or playing a musical instrument.

Non-Surgical Treatments

Most cases of tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow can be managed with non-surgical treatments.

Rest and Activity Modification

Resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. It may be necessary to modify how certain tasks are performed to prevent further strain on the tendons.

Medications

• NSAIDs: Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
• Topical Analgesics: Creams and gels applied directly to the elbow can provide localized pain relief.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy exercises can help strengthen the muscles around the elbow, improve flexibility, and reduce pain. A physical therapist can provide a tailored exercise program that includes stretching and strengthening exercises.

Bracing and Support

Using a brace or strap on the forearm can help reduce strain on the tendons and provide support during activities. These devices can help distribute the load more evenly and prevent further injury.

Injections

Corticosteroid Injections

These can provide temporary relief from pain and inflammation. However, repeated use is not recommended due to potential side effects.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP therapy involves injecting a concentration of the patient’s own platelets into the affected area to promote healing. This treatment is still being studied, but initial results are promising.

Surgical Treatment

Tennis Elbow Surgery

For tennis elbow, one surgical option is an open release procedure. This involves making a small incision over the affected area and removing the damaged tissue.

Arthroscopic surgery, a minimally invasive technique, can also be used to remove damaged tissue through small incisions using a camera and specialized instruments. Both procedures aim to alleviate pain and restore function by promoting healing in the affected tendons.

Golfer’s Elbow Surgery

Golfer’s elbow surgery similarly focuses on removing the degenerated tendon tissue. Open surgery is the traditional approach, allowing direct access to the damaged area for repair. Alternatively, arthroscopic techniques can be employed, offering the benefits of smaller incisions, reduced scarring, and faster recovery times.

In both cases, post-surgical rehabilitation is crucial to regain strength and flexibility in the elbow, ensuring a successful return to daily activities and sports. Consultation with an orthopedic specialist can help determine the most appropriate surgical option based on the severity of the condition and individual patient needs.

Prevention Tips

Preventing tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow involves reducing the strain on the tendons:

• Proper Technique: Using the correct techniques in sports and daily activities can help prevent overuse injuries.
• Strengthening Exercises: Regular exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles can provide better support to the elbow.
• Ergonomic Adjustments: Making ergonomic adjustments to workstations and tools can help reduce repetitive strain on the tendons.

Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow: Conclusion

Effective management & treatment of tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow involves a combination of rest, medication, physical therapy, and possibly injections or surgery. Early intervention and proper management can lead to a full recovery and help prevent recurrence.

If you are having issues related to tennis elbow and golfers elbow and need to schedule a consultation with an expert, call today to schedule a consultation with specialist Dr. Badia.

Dr. Alejandro Badia, MD, FACS
380 2nd Avenue
Suite #1000
New York, NY 10010
(929) 605-4263

Dr. Alejandro Badia is an internationally renowned hand surgeon specializing in hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder concerns, and is now consulting and operating on patients in New York City.