Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer's Elbow: Symptoms and Support Options

Despite the names, you don't need to play tennis or golf to get either of these. Both are overuse injuries of the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the elbow — and the main difference is simply where it hurts.

Telling them apart

• Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): pain on the outside of the elbow, worse when you lift, grip, or straighten the wrist. Common from typing, painting, using tools, or any repeated gripping.
• Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis): pain on the inside of the elbow, worse when you flex the wrist or squeeze. Common from lifting, throwing, and repetitive hand work.

Both share the same root: tendons asked to do too much, too often, without enough recovery.

How a brace or strap helps

A targeted support like the Path Pharm PPJ-400 Elbow Brace works by applying gentle pressure to the forearm muscle just below the elbow. That changes how force travels through the irritated tendon — effectively giving the sore attachment point a rest while you keep using your arm. Many people find it noticeably reduces pain during gripping tasks.

The recovery basics that actually move the needle

1. Relative rest: ease off the aggravating motion — you don't have to stop everything, just dial it back.
2. Cold then heat: cold for a fresh flare, heat to loosen a stiff, chronic ache (see our hot vs. cold guide).
3. Support during activity: wear the strap for the tasks that trigger pain.
4. Gentle loading over time: tendons recover with gradual, controlled exercise — a physiotherapist can guide this.

When to see a professional

Get assessed if pain is severe, follows a sudden injury, comes with numbness or significant weakness, or hasn't improved after a few weeks of rest and support. Tendon issues respond well to the right rehab — but they can be stubborn if ignored.

Find the right fit in our Support Braces collection.

This article is for general education only and is not medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for persistent or severe elbow pain.