Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow – What’s the Difference?

Golfer’s elbow is the result of pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm to the elbow. The pain occurs where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the inside of your elbow. Pain may also radiate into the forearm. Like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow occurs from overusing the forearm muscles that allow you to grip, rotate your arm, and flex your wrist. These repetitive motions can can lead to tiny tears and pulls in the tendons.

Common sports that cause this injury include tennis, bowling, and baseball. But, any repetitive forearm, wrist or hand motion can lead to injury. Playing golf isn’t the only activity prone to this injury and athletes aren’t the only sufferers. Workers using tools like screwdrivers and hammers, raking, or painting can suffer from this condition.