When seeking specialized care for elbow injuries, particularly conditions like golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow, having a skilled and experienced orthopedic elbow specialist by your side is crucial. In Ephrata, PA, patients turn to Dr. Michael Bercik a board-certified orthopedic surgeon at Lancaster Orthopedic Group with a reputation for excellence in shoulder and elbow treatment.

Dr. Bercik’s journey to becoming an esteemed orthopedic elbow specialist has been marked by dedication, rigorous training, and a passion for helping patients regain their quality of life. During his residency, Dr. Bercik was recognized for his outstanding patient care, receiving the prestigious Mark D. Chilton Award. Dr. Bercik’s commitment to excellence is further highlighted by his international fellowships that provided him with a wide-ranging experience enabling him to approach any ailment of the shoulder and elbow with a multitude of options, ensuring the best possible outcomes for his patients.

Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow

Understanding the nuances between different conditions is essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment when it comes to elbow pain. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) may sound similar, but they are distinct conditions that affect specific tendons and areas of the elbow:

Affected Tendons:

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the elbow’s outer side (lateral). These tendons are connected to the muscles that extend the wrist and fingers.

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Golfer’s elbow, on the other hand, affects the tendons on the elbow’s inner side (medial). These tendons are connected to the muscles that flex the wrist and fingers.

Causes:

Tennis Elbow: It is typically caused by repetitive gripping, wrist extension, and forearm rotation, which are common movements in sports like tennis (hence the name) but can also result from other activities or work-related tasks.

Golfer’s Elbow: Golfer’s elbow is caused by repetitive gripping, wrist flexion, and forearm rotation, resembling the movements involved in a golf swing, but other repetitive actions can also cause it.

Symptoms:

Tennis Elbow: Symptoms include pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. Pain may radiate down the forearm. Weakness in wrist extension may also be experienced.

Golfer’s Elbow: Golfer’s elbow presents with pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. This pain can extend down the forearm, and individuals may experience weakness in wrist flexion.

Treatment:

Tennis Elbow: Treatment for tennis elbow often includes rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, bracing or splinting, and sometimes corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be considered.

Golfer’s Elbow: Golfer’s elbow is treated similarly with rest, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and bracing. Corticosteroid injections may also be used. In cases resistant to conservative treatment, surgery may be an option.

Start Recovering Today!

While tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow may share some similarities, such as the involvement of repetitive motions and discomfort in the elbow region, they are distinct conditions affecting different tendons and areas of the elbow. Whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow, seeking prompt medical attention and adhering to a tailored treatment plan can significantly improve your chances of a full recovery and a pain-free life.

To ensure excellent evaluation and personalized care, schedule an appointment with Dr. Michael Bercik at Lancaster Orthopedic Group in Ephrata, PA. Contact us today at 717.560.4200.