Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow: What’s the Difference?
Elbow pain is a common problem, especially for people who play sports, work with their hands, or spend long hours at a computer. Two of the most frequent causes are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. While their names sound similar, they affect different parts of the elbow and require slightly different approaches to care.
At Fonthill Chiropractic, we often help patients find relief from both conditions through safe, natural chiropractic care. Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) is caused by overuse of the forearm muscles that attach to the outside of the elbow. Despite its name, you don’t have to play tennis to get it — anyone who repeats gripping, lifting, or twisting motions can develop tennis elbow.
Common symptoms include:
Pain or burning on the outside of the elbow.
Weak grip strength.
Pain that worsens with lifting or twisting movements.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It’s often linked to repetitive wrist flexion and gripping activities — and like tennis elbow, it’s not just for athletes.
Common symptoms include:
Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow.
Stiffness in the elbow joint.
Pain when making a fist or flexing the wrist.
Key Differences Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
Location of pain: Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inside.
Muscle groups involved: Tennis elbow involves wrist and finger extensors, while golfer’s elbow involves wrist and finger flexors.
Activities that trigger pain: Tennis elbow pain worsens with lifting and twisting; golfer’s elbow pain worsens with gripping and wrist flexion.
How Chiropractic Care Helps Elbow Pain
Both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are caused by repetitive stress and muscle imbalances, which is why chiropractic care is so effective.
Treatment may include:
Spinal and joint adjustments to reduce strain on the elbow and improve overall alignment.
Soft tissue therapy to relax tight muscles and improve circulation.
Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen the forearm and restore flexibility.
Posture and ergonomics guidance to prevent recurrence, especially for people who use computers or tools daily.
By treating the root cause instead of masking the pain, chiropractic care promotes natural, long-term healing.
Find Relief From Elbow Pain at Fonthill Chiropractic
Whether you’re struggling with tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or another repetitive strain injury, chiropractic care may help you recover faster and prevent future flare-ups.
At Fonthill Chiropractic, we’ll create a personalized plan to relieve your pain, restore mobility, and support long-term joint health.
Book your appointment today with a trusted chiropractor in Fonthill and take the first step toward lasting elbow pain relief.