In everyday labor and sports, elbow pain is frequent. Nonetheless, a lot of patients mistake golfer’s elbow for tennis elbow. Tendon overload is a feature of both disorders. However, they differ in location, etiology, and therapy.
Evidence-based care is commonly used to treat these disorders at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre. With an emphasis on physiotherapy management, this guide describes the distinction between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. Recovery is improved by early diagnosis and appropriate therapy. Expert physiotherapy in Delhi NCR is essential in this situation.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Lateral epicondylitis is the medical term for tennis elbow. The outside of the elbow is impacted. Extensor tendons in the wrist are overused in this syndrome.
Structure Affected
Extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon
Lateral epicondyle of the humerus
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Medial epicondylitis is another name for golfer’s elbow. The elbow’s inner side is impacted. Overuse of the wrist flexor tendons is the problem.
Structure Affected
Pronator teres and wrist flexors
Medial epicondyle of the humerus
Tennis Elbow vs Golfer’s Elbow – Key Differences
FEATURE
TENNIS ELBOW
GOLFER’S ELBOW
PAIN LOCATION
Outer Elbow
Inner Elbow
MAIN MUSCLE
Wrist Extensors
Wrist Flexors
COMMON CAUSE
Repetitive gripping
Repetitive Wrist Flexion
POPULATION
Desk worker, athletes
Manual worker, throwers
Causes of Both Conditions
These conditions develop due to cumulative overload.
Repetitive gripping activities
Poor ergonomic posture
Sudden increase in training load
Weak forearm muscles
Inadequate recovery
Types and Classification
Both conditions are classified as tendinopathies, not inflammation.
Stages
Reactive tendinopathy
Tendon disrepair
Degenerative tendinopathy
Physiotherapy strategies differ at each stage.
Clinical Features and Symptoms
Tennis Elbow Symptoms
Pain on outer elbow
Weak grip strength
Pain during lifting or shaking hands
Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms
Pain on inner elbow
Pain during wrist flexion
Tenderness over medial epicondyle
Symptoms worsen without proper physiotherapy treatment.
Physiotherapy Management – Core of Recovery
The most effective treatment is physical therapy. Tendons cannot be healed by medication alone. Individualized care is provided at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre.
Phase 1: Pain Reduction and Tendon Protection
Initially, pain control is essential.
Techniques Used
Activity modification
Taping and bracing
Manual therapy
Isometric exercises
Advanced modalities support early healing.
Shock Wave Therapy for Elbow Tendinopathy
Super Inductive System (SIS)
High Intensity Laser Therapy
Phase 2: Tendon Loading and Strengthening
Progressive loading is crucial for recovery.
Key Exercises
Eccentric forearm training
Grip strengthening
Wrist control drills
Functional task training
Dry Needling and Cupping Therapy
Phase 3: Return to Work and Sport
The final phase restores confidence and performance.
Sport-specific drills
Ergonomic correction
Load management education
Why Choose Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre?
Expert sports physiotherapists
Advanced technology
Evidence-based protocols
Trusted physiotherapy in Delhi NCR
Conclusion
Understanding the difference between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow is essential. Correct diagnosis leads to effective physiotherapy. Advanced treatment prevents chronic pain. Early care always gives better outcomes.
Accurate diagnosis matters in elbow pain. Discover the difference between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow with advanced physiotherapy care at Elite Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Centre, Delhi NCR.
