With the Australian Open commencing in Melbourne this week, let’s chat about a common injury to the elbow named after tennis: ‘Tennis Elbow’. What is it? What causes it? And what is the difference between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow?

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis Elbow, or Lateral Epicondylitis, is an overuse injury which presents on the outside (lateral) aspect of the elbow joint.

Tennis Elbow occurs after repetitive or heavy tasks that involve the muscles and tendons responsible for wrist extension. This is the action of bringing the back of your hand towards your forearm, like you would when you are supporting yourself when kneeling on all fours. Overuse of these muscles/tendons can lead to injury of the tendon which results in pain and inflammation.

Tennis Elbow derives its name from a backhand tennis stroke, which uses the wrist extensor muscles and tendons.

However, you don’t have to be Roger Federer to have this condition! In fact, you don’t even have to play tennis to experience it. Tennis Elbow can occur in anyone who performs repetitive type actions. Carpenters, painters and desk workers (computer mouse use) are all very prone to Tennis Elbow!

How does Tennis Elbow differ to Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s Elbow, or Medial Epicondylitis, is also an overuse injury. However, the difference between the two conditions is that Golfer’s Elbow occurs on the inside (medial) aspect of the elbow joint.

Golfer’s Elbow occurs after repetitive activities that involve the muscles and tendons that are responsible for bending or flexing the wrist forward. This is the action used when picking up a glass of water for example.

Golfer’s Elbow obtains its name from the golf swing, which uses the wrist flexor muscles and tendons.

However, similar to Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow can occur in anyone who performs repetitive wrist actions and is not purely limited to golfers!

What to do if you are suffering from Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow?

Come and see us! Your Osteopath at Be Well Health Group can take you through some testing in order to determine if you have Tennis (or Golfer’s) Elbow. Our assessments consider the local and global factors that can contribute to your injury, and we will work with you to come up with a treatment plan that will work for you.