TENNIS ELBOW AND GOLFER'S ELBOW

If you are troubled by pain in the wrist, forearm and elbow, you may have one of two diagnoses: tennis elbow or golfer's elbow. What is the difference between them?

TENNIS ELBOW

Tennis elbow, known medically as lateral epicondylitis, affects the group of extensor tendons and muscles (the so-called wrist extensors). This muscle group attaches to the outer prominence of the humerus. The pain is therefore felt on the outer side of the elbow.

GOLFER'S ELBOW

Golfer's elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is caused by overloading the flexor muscles of the wrist (the so-called wrist flexors). This muscle group attaches to the inner side of the elbow. The pain is then felt on the inner side of the elbow.

What can cause these conditions?

Tennis or golfer's elbow can be caused by:

• A sudden injury. For example, simply knocking your arm against a door frame or another object can trigger a painful and inflammatory reaction.
• Repetitive overloading of the arm when performing one-sided movements. Overloading provokes an inflammatory response.

Diagnosis at FYZIO KLINIK® includes taking the client's case history, examining the symptoms and performing diagnostic tests for golfer's or tennis elbow.

How does the therapy for tennis or golfer's elbow proceed?

There are several treatment options for tennis and golfer's elbow:

1. Rest regime, in which we limit the activities that cause pain. Alternatively, we may perform the activity with the opposite hand or in the opposite direction. For example, if severe pain has arisen from frequently wringing out a cloth, the client is advised to wring the cloth in the opposite direction. Following this regime is important for the healing of the painful area.

2. Physical therapy in the form of electrotherapy, magnetotherapy, shockwave therapy, and the application of heat or cold.
This form of therapy has an analgesic and anti-inflammatory effect, triggers the self-healing process at the site of pain and speeds up recovery. The client can therefore return more quickly to their sporting or work activities.

3. Passive therapy in the form of kinesio taping or a supportive bandage.

4. Active therapy, in which we use various manual techniques such as:
– releasing the overloaded muscle groups
– stretching the shortened muscles
– rolling
– mobilisation of the elbow using the Ackerman technique
– the SpiralDynamik technique and movement concept applied to the elbow
– eccentric training
– exercise with the Flexibar tool
– centration of the joints of the entire upper limb

Which anti-inflammatory medications can help in the treatment of tennis or golfer's elbow?

You can apply the massage gel Ortho 3OOO or Strong Power to the painful area, both of which are also available at our FYZIO KLINIK®. Anti-inflammatory medications such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin can also assist with treatment.

If you have symptoms of tennis or golfer's elbow, we strongly recommend starting treatment as soon as possible so that it does not develop into bigger problems in the future.

Article author: Michal Chlebiš, Senior Physiotherapist

You can book a therapy session at FYZIO KLINIK® through our app or by calling our reception on +421 (0) 948 774 999.