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Elbow pain can make everyday activities difficult, whether you’re swinging a golf club, playing tennis, lifting weights, gardening, or simply carrying groceries. Two of the most common causes of elbow pain are Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow. Despite their names, these conditions don’t just affect golfers and tennis players; they can develop in anyone who performs repetitive arm, wrist, or hand movements.

At Orthopaedic Specialty Group, we help patients throughout Connecticut identify the source of their elbow pain and develop personalized treatment plans to restore comfort and function. Understanding the differences between Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow is the first step toward finding relief.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated or damaged due to repetitive use.

This condition is commonly associated with:

• Tennis and racquet sports
• Painting
• Carpentry
• Plumbing
• Typing and computer work
• Repetitive lifting

The repeated stress causes small tears in the tendon that connects the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain on the outside of the elbow
• Weak grip strength
• Pain when lifting objects
• Discomfort when shaking hands
• Pain when turning a doorknob or using tools

Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen over time without treatment.

What Is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. While golfers may develop this condition due to repetitive swinging motions, it is also common among:

• Baseball players
• Weightlifters
• Construction workers
• Gardeners
• People who perform repetitive gripping or wrist motions

Golfer’s Elbow occurs when repetitive stress causes inflammation or small tears in the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the inner elbow.

Common Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

• Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow
• Stiffness in the elbow joint
• Weakness in the hand or wrist
• Pain when gripping or lifting
• Tingling or numbness that may radiate into the fingers

Like Tennis Elbow, symptoms often develop gradually.

When Should You See an Orthopaedic Specialist?

If elbow pain is:

• Lasting more than a few weeks
• Affecting work, sports, or daily activities
• Accompanied by weakness or numbness
• Not improving with rest

It may be time to seek professional evaluation.

At Orthopaedic Specialty Group, our specialists provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for elbow injuries and overuse conditions, helping patients return to the activities they enjoy.

Get Back to Doing What You Love With Orthopaedic Specialty Group

Whether you’re dealing with Golfer’s Elbow, Tennis Elbow, or another source of arm pain, early treatment can help prevent symptoms from worsening and speed your recovery.

The team at Orthopaedic Specialty Group is committed to helping patients throughout Connecticut regain strength, reduce pain, and return to an active lifestyle with confidence. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.