Elbow injuries are common among athletes, especially in sports such as tennis, golf, and weightlifting. Two of the most frequently encountered conditions are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. While these injuries may sound similar, they actually refer to different types of elbow pain, each with its own causes, symptoms, and treatment options. Whether you’re an avid tennis player in Guildford, a golfer in Surrey, or someone who enjoys any sport or activity that requires repetitive arm motions, understanding the difference between these two conditions is crucial for effective treatment and recovery.
These injuries are often the result of overuse and strain on the tendons and muscles around the elbow joint, making them particularly common in athletes who perform repetitive motions. Both conditions can cause significant discomfort, limit mobility, and interfere with daily activities, making it essential to address the issue promptly.
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, how each condition affects the elbow joint, and the most effective treatments available to athletes. Whether you’re dealing with elbow pain from playing tennis, swinging a golf club, or engaging in other sports, this guide will provide you with the information needed to seek the right treatment and avoid long-term damage. Additionally, we’ll highlight how expert care in Guildford and Surrey can help you recover quickly, so you can get back to doing what you love.

What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by overuse or strain of the forearm muscles, particularly those responsible for extending the wrist and fingers. This repetitive motion leads to micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle (the bony bump on the outer side of the elbow).
Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow:
- Pain on the outer side of the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Pain when lifting or gripping objects, especially with the palm facing down
- Tenderness around the elbow joint
- Pain may radiate down the forearm
Risk Factors:
- Repetitive motions in sports like tennis, racquetball, or baseball
- Occupations involving repetitive arm movements, such as painting or carpentry
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a similar condition, but it affects the inner side of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow) become inflamed due to repetitive stress.
Common Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow:
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness near the bony bump on the inner elbow
- Pain when gripping or swinging objects, such as a golf club
- Weakness in the wrist or hand
- Stiffness in the elbow joint
Risk Factors:
- Overuse of the wrist flexors and forearm muscles, often from sports like golf, throwing, or weightlifting
- Activities that involve repetitive lifting or gripping motions

Key Differences Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow: What’s the Difference?
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow may sound similar, but they affect different parts of the elbow joint and result from distinct types of repetitive motion. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences between the two conditions:
- Affected Area:
- Tennis Elbow: Affects the outer side (lateral) of the elbow.
- Golfer’s Elbow: Affects the inner side (medial) of the elbow.
- Cause:
- Tennis Elbow: Caused by overuse of the muscles that extend the wrist and fingers, often due to repetitive motions in tennis or racquet sports.
- Golfer’s Elbow: Caused by overuse of the muscles that flex the wrist and fingers, often due to activities like golf, weightlifting, or throwing.
- Symptoms:
- Tennis Elbow: Pain on the outer elbow, weakness in grip strength, pain when lifting objects with the palm facing down.
- Golfer’s Elbow: Pain on the inner elbow, tenderness around the medial epicondyle, weakness in the wrist or hand, and pain during gripping motions.
- Common Sports:
- Tennis Elbow: Tennis, racquetball, baseball, and any sport involving repetitive wrist extension.
- Golfer’s Elbow: Golf, weightlifting, throwing sports (e.g., baseball, javelin), and activities involving repetitive gripping.
- Treatment Options:
- Both conditions can be treated with rest, ice, braces, physical therapy, and injections.
- In more severe cases, surgery may be required for either condition if conservative treatments fail.
These differences can help you identify which condition you might be dealing with and allow for a more targeted treatment plan.
Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Effective Treatment Options for Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow can be treated with a combination of non-surgical and, in some cases, surgical interventions. The right treatment depends on the severity of the injury and the individual’s response to conservative measures.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options:
- Brace Treatment: Wearing a brace can help relieve pressure on the tendons and reduce pain.
- Steroid Injections: Injections of corticosteroids can provide short-term relief from inflammation and pain.
- PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of the patient’s platelets into the injured area to promote healing.
Surgical Treatment Options:
- Elbow Surgical Release: In cases where non-surgical methods don’t provide relief, surgery may be necessary. The procedure involves releasing the damaged tendon to promote healing.
At One Orthopaedics in Guildford and Surrey, we provide personalised treatment plans for both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. Our expert team can help guide you through the most effective options to get you back in action.
How to Prevent Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention is key when it comes to avoiding elbow injuries in the first place. Here are some tips to help reduce the risk of developing tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow:
- Proper Warm-Up: Always warm up your muscles before any physical activity to prepare them for the strains of exercise.
- Stretching & Strengthening Exercises: Regularly perform stretches and strengthening exercises to keep your forearm muscles flexible and strong.
- Avoid Overuse: Take breaks to avoid repetitive motions that put stress on the elbow joint.
- Use Correct Technique: Ensure you’re using proper form when playing tennis, golf, or engaging in any sport to reduce strain on the elbow.
If you’re unsure about your technique or are experiencing early signs of elbow pain, seeking professional advice can help prevent serious injuries.
Book a Consultation for Elbow Injury Treatment in Guildford & Surrey
If you’re experiencing elbow pain from tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, contact One Orthopaedics for personalised treatment options. Our expert team in Guildford & Surrey is ready to help you recover and return to your favourite sports.
Book your consultation online today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
What causes tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles, leading to tendon inflammation in the outer elbow.
Can golfer’s elbow occur without playing golf?
Yes, golfer’s elbow can occur from any activity that places strain on the inner elbow, such as weightlifting or throwing sports.
How long does it take to heal from tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow?
Healing time varies, but most mild cases improve within a few weeks to a few months with non-surgical treatments.
Are there surgical options for tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow?
Yes, surgery may be considered if conservative treatments don’t lead to improvement. Elbow surgical release is one option.
Can I still play sports with tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow?
Rest is recommended initially, but after appropriate treatment and recovery, you can return to sports with professional guidance.
By understanding the differences between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, seeking the right treatment options, and taking preventive measures, you can keep your elbows in top condition and continue enjoying your athletic pursuits. If you’re dealing with elbow pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to One Orthopaedics for expert care and elbow injury treatment Guildford.