Is there a difference between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow?

While both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are a type of tendonitis and are often caused by a sports activity, they are very different.

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is inflammation of the common extensor tendon.  It effects the lateral, or outside of the elbow.  It is common amoung 

repeated use of the forehand.  Often seen in overuse of a computer mouse or typing.  Typical pain will radiate from the outside of the elbow to you wrist.  It usually involves your ability to reach or grasp objects. 

 Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is inflammation of the common flexor tendon.  It affects the medial, or inside of the elbow.  This type of epicondylitis is typically seen with people who have repeated twisting or bending down at the wrist, such as hammering or prolonged gripping.  You may experience pain when lifting objects or twisting of the forearm. 

 Treatment is usually nonsurgical and can be treated in the office. 

 Florida Sportsmedicine and Orthopaedics, PA

 Dr. James Talkington

 850-7634-0346