If you play golf or tennis regularly, you may notice a nagging pain in your elbow that doesn’t seem to go away. In many cases, that discomfort is caused by tendonitis—a common condition linked to repetitive motion. While it’s especially common among golfers and tennis players, it can affect anyone who uses their arms in repetitive ways.
Southlake Orthopaedics fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Jonathon Whitehead shares what’s behind golfer’s and tennis elbow, along with how to treat and prevent it so you can get back to a pain-free swing.
What Are Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow?
“It’s known as golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow, but you can develop either condition from a variety of activities,” says Dr. Whitehead. “It all comes down to wrist flexion or extension—really, it’s tendonitis where those muscles originate.”
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the inside of the elbow. It develops when the muscles that flex the wrist—bringing the hand toward the forearm—become inflamed from overuse.
Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow and is typically caused by repetitive, forceful wrist extension, such as during backhand motions.
“It’s not limited to sports,” he adds. “People who cook, paint, or do other repetitive arm movements can develop tendonitis as well.”
When Should You See a Doctor?
“A little soreness after playing is normal,” Dr. Whitehead says. “In many cases, you can manage it at home with rest, ice, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication, bracing, and taking a break from activity.”
However, if the pain starts to show up during play, lingers afterward, or begins to interfere with everyday tasks (like brushing your teeth), it’s a good idea to seek professional care.
The good new is that most cases improve without surgery. “About 80–95% of patients get better over time,” he notes.
Physical therapy is often the first step. “Physcial therapy can be especially helpful because it may include additional treatments like ultrasound therapy, red light therapy, or dry needling to calm inflammation and support healing.”
If symptoms don’t improve, options like corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy may be considered. In more severe cases, surgery can help remove damaged tissue and repair the tendon.
How Can You Prevent It from Coming Back?
“Once you’re feeling better and ready to return to your sport, prevention becomes really important,” says Dr. Whitehead.
Often, small adjustments can make a big difference. “It may be as simple as changing your grip on your racket or club,” he explains. “Proper mechanics play a big role. Poor technique is one of the main contributors to tendonitis.”
Dr. Whitehead also recommends building a consistent routine:
- Stretch and strengthen your forearms before and after activity
- Keep up with exercises you learned in physical therapy
- Use rest, ice, and even massage as part of your regular routine
“These habits can help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of the pain coming back,” he says.
When Can You Return to Play?
Getting back to the activities you love is the goal, and the timeline can look a little different for everyone. “It really depends on how long you’ve been dealing with the tendonitis and how your body responds to treatment,” Dr. Whitehead explains.
Some people start to feel better within a few weeks, while others may need several months to fully recover. “Sticking with your treatment plan makes a big difference,” he adds. “The good news is that most patients recover well without needing surgery.”
How Southlake Orthopaedics Can Help
If elbow tendonitis is keeping you from playing your best or from enjoying everyday activities, our team at Southlake Orthopaedics is here to help. With expertise across a variety of orthopaedic specialties, we can create a personalized plan to get you moving comfortably again.
Reach out today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward relief.
