Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow: Why Your Elbow Hurts (No Sport Needed)
Pain on the outside or inside of the elbow, worse with gripping or lifting? Despite the names, you do not need to play sport to get it. A guide to what it is, what helps, and when to see a doctor.
A nagging pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow — flaring when you grip, lift, twist a jar lid, or shake hands — is one of the most common overuse injuries there is. The names "tennis elbow" and "golfer's elbow" are misleading: most people who get them have never picked up a racket or club. Any repetitive hand, wrist, or forearm activity can cause them. The reassuring news is that they usually settle with the right care. Here is a clear guide.
What They Actually Are
Both are forms of tendon overload where the tendons attaching your forearm muscles to the elbow become irritated and painful, usually from repetitive strain. The difference is simply location: tennis elbow affects the outer side of the elbow, golfer's elbow the inner side. Everyday activities — gardening, using tools, typing, lifting, cooking, painting, carrying — can all cause them, which is why "you do not play tennis" is no reason to rule it out.
Typical Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness on the outer (tennis) or inner (golfer's) side of the elbow
- Worse with gripping, lifting, twisting, or shaking hands
- A weak grip, or pain radiating down the forearm
- Often builds up gradually with repetitive use
What Helps
- Rest from the aggravating activity — modify or take breaks from the repetitive movement
- Ice over the sore area for short spells can ease pain and swelling
- Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises as it settles (a physiotherapist can guide the right ones)
- A forearm brace/strap can offload the tendon during activity
- Simple pain relief as advised
- Be patient — tendon problems can take weeks to a few months to fully settle
When to See a Doctor
Most tennis/golfer's elbow improves with activity modification, exercises, and time. But see a doctor or orthopedic specialist if it is severe, not settling after several weeks, or comes with the signs above — they can confirm the diagnosis, guide physiotherapy, and advise on other options if needed. The assessment and exercise guidance suit an online consultation well.