Tennis Elbow & Golfer’s Elbow: Causes, Symptoms, and Recovery

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) are conditions that affect the tendons around the elbow. They are caused by overuse, repetitive movements, or poor mechanics, not just by playing sports. Everyday tasks like lifting, typing, gardening, or even using tools can lead to these conditions.

What’s Happening in the Elbow?

  • Tennis Elbow: The tendons on the outside of the elbow become irritated and inflamed. Repetitive wrist extension or gripping motions strain the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the elbow.

  • Golfer’s Elbow: The tendons on the inside of the elbow are affected. Repetitive wrist flexion or forearm rotation causes microtears in the tendons, resulting in pain and weakness.

Both conditions involve tiny tears in the tendon tissue and inflammation, leading to pain, tenderness, and sometimes reduced grip strength.

Symptoms You Might Notice

Tennis Elbow:

  • Pain or burning on the outer elbow

  • Weak grip strength

  • Pain during lifting, twisting, or gripping objects

  • Discomfort that may radiate down the forearm

Golfer’s Elbow:

  • Pain on the inner side of the elbow

  • Stiffness or swelling in the elbow joint

  • Pain radiating into the forearm or wrist

  • Difficulty gripping or lifting items

Symptoms often develop gradually and worsen over time if left untreated.

Why a Proper Assessment Matters

A comprehensive assessment by a physiotherapist or chiropractor is essential to:

  • Identify which tendons and muscles are affected

  • Determine contributing factors such as posture, wrist and shoulder mechanics

  • Detect any related issues like nerve compression or joint restriction

  • Develop a personalized treatment plan for faster recovery

  • Prevent the condition from becoming chronic

Without a detailed assessment, treatment may only relieve pain temporarily.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

  • Strengthening exercises: Improves tendon resilience and forearm muscle strength

  • Stretching programs: Reduces tightness in the forearm and elbow

  • Manual therapy: Mobilizes the elbow, wrist, and shoulder joints

  • Movement retraining: Teaches proper lifting and gripping techniques

  • Pain management: Modalities like ultrasound, laser therapy, or taping

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

  • Restores proper alignment in the elbow, wrist, and shoulder

  • Reduces mechanical stress on tendons

  • Improves joint mobility and range of motion

  • Addresses postural or movement issues contributing to tendon strain

How Massage Therapy Can Help

  • Releases tension in forearm and elbow muscles

  • Improves blood flow to promote healing

  • Reduces stiffness and muscle guarding

  • Complements physiotherapy and chiropractic care for faster recovery

Prevention & Self-Care Tips

  • Take frequent breaks from repetitive tasks

  • Use ergonomic tools and proper lifting techniques

  • Apply ice for 10–15 minutes after activity to reduce inflammation

  • Wear an elbow strap or brace to offload tendon stress

  • Gradually strengthen forearm muscles before returning to activity

The Benefits of a Combined Approach

Using physiotherapy, chiropractic care, and massage therapy together:

  • Targets the root cause of elbow pain

  • Improves tendon strength and flexibility

  • Reduces inflammation and discomfort

  • Restores functional movement for daily life, work, or sports

Get Expert Care

Early intervention is key. At Medical Grade Physiotherapy & Wellness in Burlington, our team provides personalized care for tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, helping patients recover safely, reduce pain, and return to activities stronger than before.