Tennis and Golfer's Elbow:

Tennis and golfer's elbow are conditions where one or other side of the elbow becomes painful and tender, usually as a result of overuse or straining a specific muscle. If we think of the right elbow with the palm facing away from the body, tennis elbow would affect the right side and golfer's elbow the left side of that elbow. The muscles affected in tennis elbow are those which would be used in the forehand tennis shot, or those which bend the fingers towards the wrist. Whereas the muscles affected in golfer's elbow are those that would be used in a golf swing which move the back of the hand in a direction away from the palm.

Symptoms:

The affected side of the elbow is often painful and tender to the touch and movements which involve the muscle groups mentioned above may also be painful.

Although these conditions both have sport related names, you do not need to be a keen sportsman to suffer from tennis or golfer's elbow. It is merely a case of repeated use of specific muscle groups and certain occupations, such as plasterers or painters, often cause exactly the same condition. Indeed anyone can be affected!

Diagnosis:

Diagnosis is usually quite straightforward. Your doctor would normally feel for tenderness over the bony prominences at the elbow (or 'epicondyles') and will test the muscle groups for pain.

Treatments:

Rest and avoid using the muscle groups.

Use anti-inflammatory drugs regularly and over-the-counter painkillers

Physiotherapy treatments , for example ultrasound or heat therapy may be advisable.

A small dose of steroid injected into the affected area may also help.

Disclaimer: This page is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice or substituted for professional advice. Always consult your doctor with your questions and concerns.