Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow
What is Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow are tendon overload conditions at the elbow. Tennis elbow affects the outer side of the elbow, usually the common extensor tendon. Golfer's elbow affects the inner side, usually the common flexor-pronator tendon.
Common symptoms
Pain is triggered by gripping, lifting, twisting, typing, racquet sport, golf, gym training or manual work. Tenderness is localised to the tendon origin and symptoms often flare with repeated load rather than one single movement.
Diagnosis and imaging
Diagnosis is usually clinical. Examination identifies the painful tendon and checks for nerve irritation, joint pathology or referred pain. Ultrasound or MRI may be used for persistent cases, atypical symptoms or when surgery is being considered.
Non-surgical treatment
Treatment focuses on load management, progressive tendon strengthening, ergonomic changes, bracing and addressing shoulder, wrist or technique contributors. Injections may be considered selectively, but repeated corticosteroid injections can weaken tendon tissue and may worsen long-term outcomes.
Surgical treatment
Surgery is uncommon and reserved for persistent, well-localised symptoms that fail a prolonged, high-quality rehabilitation program. Procedures aim to remove diseased tendon tissue and stimulate healing at the tendon origin.
Recovery and follow-up
Most patients improve gradually with consistent rehabilitation. After surgery, early motion is followed by progressive strengthening, with heavier work or sport reintroduced once pain and tendon capacity improve.
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow FAQs
Is tennis elbow only caused by tennis?
No. It is more often related to repeated gripping, lifting, typing, tools or gym loading than racquet sport alone.
How is tennis elbow and golfer's elbow diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a focused history and examination, then uses imaging selectively to confirm the pattern of injury, exclude related problems and plan treatment accurately.
Do injections cure tendon pain?
Injections can reduce pain in selected cases, but tendon recovery depends on rebuilding load capacity. The type and timing of injection matter.
Will I need surgery for tennis elbow and golfer's elbow?
Many patients improve without surgery. Surgery is considered when symptoms remain limiting despite appropriate non-surgical care, when there is significant structural damage, or when delay may compromise function.
When can I return to racquet sport, golf or manual work?
Return depends on the diagnosis, treatment type, tissue healing and the physical demands of the activity. The plan is usually staged, with strength, range of motion and confidence rebuilt before unrestricted loading.
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