Do You Have Chronic Elbow Pain? You Might Have Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow!
What Is the Difference Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow?
They are both forms of tendonitis, which means the inflammation or irritation of a tendon. A tendon is a thick fibrous cord that attaches muscle to bone. The condition causes pain and tenderness just outside a joint, in this case, the elbow. The most significant difference is where you feel pain. Tennis elbow pain is felt on the outside of your elbow. Golfer’s elbow pain is felt on the inside of your elbow. It’s an overuse injury in the tendons causing chronic elbow pain and inflammation or tendonitis. It’s commonly seen in people who play tennis or golf, but anyone who does repetitive movements at the wrist or arm can develop it.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, affects the outside of the elbow, which is caused by repetitive wrist extension. This can create damage to the tendons of the forearm. If you take part in any activity that requires repetitive gripping, especially if you use the thumb and first two fingers, you can develop tennis elbow.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, Medial Epicondylitis, affects the inside of the elbow and is caused by repetitive wrist flexion. The pain of golfer’s elbow may spread to your forearm and wrist. If you take part in any activity that requires swinging, throwing, or gripping, you can develop golfer’s elbow, especially if you use your wrist or fingers.
Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms:
- Pain when you try to grip something or lift an object
- Discomfort when opening a door
- Soreness when shaking hands
- Difficulty raising your hand or straightening your wrist
- Tenderness on the inside or outside of your elbow
Treatment of Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow:
- Rest
- Biopuncture
- Acupuncture
- Anti-inflammatory supplements or medications
- Physical therapy
- Massage therapy
- Elbow bracing
- Diet (anti-inflammatory)
- Surgery (severe cases)
Biopuncture, natural injections for pain, is a very effective treatment
for Tennis or Golfer’s elbow. To learn more click here
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Written by: Dr. Sarv Varta Khalsa
