A simple bend in the wrist sets off pain in the forearm. When grabbing items, there isn’t as much strength. What is going on? Could it be what’s commonly referred to as tennis elbow? Or is this golf elbow? What exactly is the difference?
Tennis Elbow
Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is a muscle strain injury that results in inflammation on the outside of the elbow or the side furthest away from the body. With repeated use of the forehand, these muscles are overworked and become inflamed. Pain may radiate from the outside of the elbow to the forearm and wrist. It can be a constant ache in the elbow area or only while performing activities that involve reaching, grasping, or lifting. It is not necessary to play tennis to develop tennis elbow.
Golfers Elbow
Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is an irritation on the inner side of the arm and elbow or the side closest to the body. This condition can be caused by any activity that requires repeated twisting or flexing (bending downwards) of the wrist. Repeated lifting, especially when your elbow is extended and your palm is facing down, can cause golfer’s elbow. Symptoms include pain on the inside of the elbow when lifting the wrist or hand, pain when twisting the forearm, or when making a fist. The area may be slightly swollen or tender to the touch. It is not necessary to play golf to develop golfer’s elbow.
Regardless of what is causing the pain, immediate treatment includes resting the elbow and wrist. It may take several weeks to feel a decrease in pain and even longer until the symptoms are gone completely. Icing the painful area may help with inflammation, but if the condition does not show improvement, it is important to seek medical attention.
