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Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Get Back In The Swing Of Things With G2 Orthopedics
Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is an injury to the muscles and tendons on the outside (lateral aspect) of the elbow that usually comes from overuse or repetitive use. It is not just seen in tennis players and occasionally can occur with an injury. Golfer’s elbow, known as medial epicondylitis, occurs on the inner part of the elbow and is also due to overuse or repetitive use. Like tennis elbow, golfer's elbow also occurs individuals who do not play golf.
Cause of Tennis Elbow
Tennis elbow is generally caused by overuse of tendons on the back of the forearm. It occurs often in tennis players but also results from other activities that involve overuse of the elbow. In fact, most patients with lateral epicondylitis symptoms are not tennis players at all. Activities that require repetitive use of the elbow (e.g., painting a house, using a mouse, cutting hair, etc.) can cause this condition.
However, sometimes patients will have pain without a history of repetitive use. This is mostly due to the normal aging process of tendons or to weakness in the arm.
Cause of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow is less common and usually occurs with flexing the wrist or gripping with the hand. It occurs in golfers but also with using hand or power tools, throwing a ball, or even swimming.
Treatment for Elbow Pain
The goal of treatment for tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow is the same: to decrease inflammation and pain, allow the tissues to heal, and avoid muscle atrophy.
The main treatment is first resting and using ice to control the pain, followed by a stretching and strengthening program. These conditions can become a chronic problem if they are not addressed early. Regaining full strength and flexibility is critical before returning to your previous level of sports activity.
If you think you have tennis or golfer's elbow and need a treatment plan from a well-trained medical professional, visit Dr. Goradia of G2 Orthopedics and Sports Medicine. He will assess your pain, symptoms, and lifestyle to create a personalized treatment plan to get you back in motion quickly and efficiently.
