Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow Surgery

Tennis Elbow / Golfer’s Elbow Surgery

Elbow pain from overuse or repetitive motion can interfere with work, sports, and daily life. Two of the most common tendon injuries are tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, conditions that affect the outer and inner tendons of the elbow, respectively. While many cases respond to conservative care, persistent or severe symptoms may require advanced surgical intervention to restore function and relieve pain. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, our specialists provide expert evaluation and comprehensive treatment options – both non-surgical and surgical – tailored to help you recover fully and get back to the activities you enjoy.

Understanding Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer’s Elbow

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow affects the outer side of the elbow and involves inflammation or degeneration of the extensor tendons that attach to the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. Contrary to the name, only a small fraction of cases are related to tennis. Common causes include repetitive gripping, lifting, or twisting motions used in sports, work tasks, or daily activities.

Symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness on the outer elbow
• Weak grip strength
• Discomfort when lifting, shaking hands, or turning a doorknob

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow affects the inner side of the elbow and involves the flexor tendons attaching to the medial epicondyle. It is often caused by repetitive wrist flexion or forearm pronation, common in golf, throwing, or manual labor.

Symptoms include:

• Pain or tenderness on the inner elbow
• Weak grip or difficulty holding objects
• Pain with wrist flexion or forearm rotation

Treatment Options

Conservative Treatment

Many elbow tendon injuries respond well to non-surgical treatments, which remain the first line of care:

• Rest and Activity Modification: Avoid repetitive motions that aggravate the tendon.
• Bracing: Counterforce straps or wrist supports reduce tendon strain.
• Physical Therapy: Stretching and strengthening exercises targeting the affected tendon.
• Medications: NSAIDs or topical anti-inflammatories help manage pain and inflammation.
• Advanced Non-Surgical Therapies: PRP injections, corticosteroid injections, or shockwave therapy may be recommended for persistent cases.

Conservative treatment usually requires 3-6 months of consistent therapy and activity modification.

Surgical Treatment

Open tendon repair allows the surgeon to directly visualize the affected tendon, remove damaged tissue, and reattach healthy tendon, providing reliable outcomes though with a slightly longer recovery period. Arthroscopic debridement, a minimally invasive approach using small incisions, offers faster recovery and less postoperative pain while achieving similar functional results.

Overall, surgical treatment is highly effective, with 80-90% of patients experiencing significant pain relief and improved elbow function. Most procedures are performed on an outpatient basis and typically last 30-45 minutes.

FAQ: Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow

Why Choose Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics

At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we combine advanced orthopedic expertise with personalized care for every patient. Our team of board-certified surgeons and specialists has extensive experience treating both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, offering the latest surgical techniques and rehabilitation protocols. We focus on:

• Comprehensive Evaluation: Each patient receives a thorough assessment to determine the most effective treatment plan.
• Advanced Surgical Care: Minimally invasive and open procedures are tailored to your specific condition to maximize outcomes.
• Individualized Rehabilitation: Guided therapy ensures optimal recovery, strength, and long-term function.
• Patient-Centered Approach: We prioritize your goals, comfort, and return to daily life or sports.

With a commitment to excellence and a track record of successful outcomes, we help patients regain elbow function, reduce pain, and return to the activities they love.

Long-Term Solutions for Elbow Pain

Recovering from tennis or golfer’s elbow is about more than temporary relief—it’s about restoring strength, preventing recurrence, and protecting arm function. At Princeton Brain, Spine & Orthopedics, we offer a full range of care, from conservative therapies and injections to advanced surgical repair. Don’t let tendon pain hold you back—schedule an evaluation today and take the first step toward getting back in the game.