Difference Between Golfers Elbow And Tennis Elbow

Elbow pain is a common problem, especially for people who use their hands and arms repeatedly. Two of the most common causes of long-term elbow pain are golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow. Although their names suggest they only affect athletes, that’s not true. Office workers, gym users, plumbers, mechanics, and even gamers can develop these conditions.

Many people search online to understand the difference between golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow because the symptoms are similar, but the treatments can differ. Knowing which condition you have helps you recover faster and avoid making the pain worse.

This guide explains everything in clear, simple terms—what each condition is, how they differ, which one is worse, and how they are treated.

Golfers Elbow vs Tennis Elbow: Quick Comparison Table

What Is Golfers Elbow?

Golfers elbow, also called medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the inner side of the elbow. It happens when the tendons that control wrist and finger movement become irritated or damaged due to overuse.

Common Symptoms of Golfers Elbow

• Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow

• Stiffness in the elbow joint

• Weak grip strength

• Pain when making a fist or bending the wrist

• Discomfort that may spread into the forearm

Who Is Most Affected?

Despite the name, golfer’s elbow affects many people, including:

• Golfers and weightlifters

• Office workers who type for long hours

• Plumbers, electricians, and carpenters

• People who frequently lift heavy objects

Early symptoms are often mild and ignored, which can make recovery take longer.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, causes pain on the outer side of the elbow. It occurs when the tendons used to straighten the wrist and fingers are overworked.

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

• Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow

• Weak grip strength

• Pain when lifting objects or shaking hands

• Discomfort during wrist movement

• Gradual worsening of pain over time

Who Commonly Gets Tennis Elbow?

• Tennis players and racket sports athletes

• Painters and construction workers

• Mechanics and electricians

• People who use tools or mouse devices repeatedly

Without proper care, tennis elbow often becomes a long-term problem.

Difference Between Golfers Elbow And Tennis Elbow

This is the most important section for understanding your condition.

1. Pain Location

• Golfers elbow: Pain is felt on the inside of the elbow

• Tennis elbow: Pain appears on the outside of the elbow

This is the easiest way to tell the two apart.

2. Affected Muscles and Tendons

• Golfers elbow affects the flexor muscles that bend the wrist

• Tennis elbow affects the extensor muscles that straighten the wrist

3. Causes and Risk Factors

Both conditions are caused by repetitive motion, but the movements differ:

• Golfers elbow: gripping, lifting, wrist bending

• Tennis elbow: twisting, gripping tools, wrist extension

4. Symptom Differences

Golfers Elbow VS Tennis Elbow: Which Is Worse?

Many people ask, “golfers elbow vs tennis elbow—which is worse?”

The answer depends on the situation.

• Tennis elbow often takes longer to heal and can interfere more with daily activities

• Golfer’s elbow may feel less intense, but  still becomes serious if ignored

In general:

• Tennis elbow is more stubborn

• Golfers elbow is easier to manage early

Both can become severe without proper treatment.

Golfers Elbow vs Tennis Elbow Treatment Options

Common Treatments for Both Conditions

• Rest and reduced activity

• Ice packs to reduce inflammation

• Anti-inflammatory medication (if advised)

• Physical therapy

• Elbow braces or straps

Golfers Elbow Specific Treatment

• Wrist flexor stretching

• Grip strengthening exercises

• Activity modification

Tennis Elbow Specific Treatment

• Forearm extensor strengthening

• Proper lifting technique

• Ergonomic adjustments

Advanced Treatment (If Pain Persists)

• Corticosteroid injections

• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy

• Surgery (only in rare cases)

Recovery Time: Golfers Elbow vs Tennis Elbow

• Mild cases: 4–6 weeks

• Moderate cases: 2–3 months

• Severe or chronic cases: 6–12 months

Recovery depends on:

• Early diagnosis

• Activity changes

• Consistency with therapy

Ignoring symptoms always delays healing.

How to Tell If You Have Golfers Elbow or Tennis Elbow

You may have golfer’s elbow if:

• Pain increases when bending the wrist inward

• Pain is in the inner elbow

You may have tennis elbow if:

• Pain worsens when lifting objects

• Pain is in the outer elbow

If pain lasts more than two weeks, see a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.

Prevention Tips for Both Conditions

• Warm up before physical activity

• Avoid repetitive strain

• Use proper sports technique

• Improve posture and workstation ergonomics

• Take breaks during repetitive tasks

Prevention is always easier than treatment.

Read also more related topics: Can You Play Golf With a Torn Shoulder Labrum?

Can You Golf with a Torn Rotator Cuff?

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow?

Golfer’s elbow affects the inner elbow, while tennis elbow affects the outer elbow. Different tendons are involved.

Can you have both conditions at the same time?

Yes, although it is uncommon, some people develop pain on both sides of the elbow.

Which is harder to treat?

Tennis elbow usually takes longer to heal than golfer’s elbow.

Do these conditions require surgery?

Most cases heal without surgery when treated early.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow helps you choose the right treatment and recover faster. While both conditions involve tendon overuse, their pain location, causes, and recovery patterns are different.

Early care, rest, and proper movement habits can help prevent long-term pain and safely return you to normal activities.