Understanding Elbow Tendon Injuries

Golfer’s and Tennis elbow are common musculoskeletal conditions affecting the tendons around the elbow. These tendons attach the forearm muscles to the bony landmarks of the elbow (the “epicondyles”) and they assist in generating strength and power for wrist and hand activities. Golfer’s and Tennis elbow are typically known as ‘overload’ conditions, where repetitive strain on the tendons has led to inflammation, pain, stiffness, weakness, and in some cases numbness or tingling into the hand or fingers.

Despite their names, these conditions don’t just affect golf or tennis players – they frequently occur in people who perform repetitive gripping, lifting, or arm movements, and can also appear during traumatic injuries such as a fall.

Similarities between Golfer’s and Tennis Elbow

Whilst they occur on opposite sides of the elbow joint, they share many similar features, which can make it confusing to differentiate.

Both conditions can present with the following symptoms:

• Elbow pain that typically develops gradually, but may appear suddenly during traumatic injuries
• Pain that can radiate into the forearm or upper arm
• Forearm, hand and grip weakness
• Localised swelling or tenderness
• Pain with gripping activities
• Discomfort when lifting objects (even light items such as phones or mugs) or performing repetitive arm movements (e.g. ironing, driving)

So how are they different?

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis Elbow pain is typically located on the outer (lateral) aspect of the elbow, specifically around the lateral epicondyle, and affects the tendons known as “extensor” tendons.

It is commonly caused by overload of gripping or wrist extension activities. Racquet sports, such as tennis and badminton, are frequent contributors. Other causes include activities and occupations that involve repetitive arm use such as prolonged computer work, painting, and lifting.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s Elbow pain is typically located on the inner aspect of the elbow, specifically around the medial epicondyle, and affects the tendons known as the forearm “flexor” tendons.

It is commonly caused by activities that involve repetitive wrist flexion or forearm movements. Golf swings and throwing sports are frequent contributors, along with weightlifting or resistance training. It may also be caused by activities such as hammering and manual labour.

What should I do if I have Golfer’s or Tennis Elbow?

Early and appropriate management is essential to support recovery and reduce the risk of ongoing or chronic symptoms. In the acute stages, it is important to reduce or modify activities that aggravate pain, particularly repetitive gripping or heavy lifting. This may also require you to adjust daily activities such as housework or vocational activities during early recovery. Allowing the tendon time to settle does not mean complete rest, but rather regulating load and gradually reintroducing activity in a controlled and progressive way.

Physiotherapy and/or Exercise Physiology play a key role in rehabilitation for symptom management, optimising tendon healing, and assisting with return to pre-injury function. Treatment typically includes an individualised strengthening program designed to progressively load and condition the tendon. Additional treatment modalities such as (but not limited to) manual therapy, ultrasound therapy, shockwave therapy and taping/bracing, may be used to help reduce pain and enhance recovery. 

If you are experiencing persistent elbow pain, book today with UniquePhysio for an initial assessment! Together we can develop a tailored treatment plan to support your recovery and promote long-term tendon health.