Tennis elbow, Golfer elbow
Severe pain on the outer or inner side of the elbow, when not caused by a recent injury, may indicate that you are suffering from epicondylitis—that is, inflammation of the tendons in the area, which have been strained or injured. Tendons connect muscles to bones, so when a repetitive or intense movement overworks the forearm muscles, fatigue and pain also occur in the connected tendons.
Lateral epicondylitis (pain on the outer side) is commonly known as tennis elbow, while medial epicondylitis (pain on the inner side) is known as golfer’s elbow, as these conditions are often observed in players of the respective sports. However, anyone who performs repetitive manual tasks that activate the forearm muscles—such as hammering, screwing, painting, etc.—may be affected.
Symptoms & Diagnosis
Epicondylitis develops gradually, and symptoms become more intense over time.
You may notice:
- Pain and tenderness on the outer or inner part of the elbow
- Tightness and frequent pain of the forearm muscles
- Difficulty gripping objects or fully extending the elbow
- Morning stiffness in elbow and wrist movements
Pain may be more intense when pressing around the elbow or when performing actions such as gripping, twisting, shaking hands, or even holding a cup.
Diagnosis is easy, based on your medical history and physical examination by a doctor. In some cases, imaging tests may be required.
How is epicondylitis treated?
The first stage involves conservative treatment: rest, stopping or modifying the movements that cause the problem, using an elbow brace or splint, massage, and anti-inflammatory analgesic creams.
In more painful cases, local cortisone injections, temporary immobilization with a cast, kinesitherapy, or physiotherapy may be necessary.
These conservative treatments are generally effective, and epicondylitis can resolve within 6–12 months. However, if improvement does not occur or if the condition reoccurs, surgery is usually recommended to remove the damaged tissue.
Can I avoid surgery?
Since epicondylitis is caused by repetitive daily movements, it is very likely that after several relapses, you may face the possibility of surgery.
However, there are alternative, less invasive treatments before reaching the operating room!
Radiofrequency Treatment
Pain is essentially a signal transmitted to the brain from the affected area via specific nerves. Radiofrequency treatment deactivates these nerves by applying heat, produced by an electrode connected to a radiofrequency generator. The electrode is inserted into the area through a special needle monitored via imaging, allowing the doctor to know its exact path and position at all times.
There are two types of radiofrequency:
- Traditional radiofrequency (80–90°C): destroys the nerve, stopping transmission of the pain signal to the brain, so the pain is no longer perceived.
- Pulsed radiofrequency (up to 42°C): does not destroy the nerve but modifies its functionality, reducing the intensity of the pain signal reaching the brain, and therefore reducing perceived pain.
Radiofrequency treatment is painless, performed under local anesthesia, minimally invasive, and allows you to return to daily activities immediately without strong medications.
This therapy serves as an intermediate step between conservative methods and surgery, which is the last resort. For this reason, in recent decades, it is widely used worldwide and is preferred by both clinicians and patients, particularly in sports where painful conditions and injuries are common.
In our clinic, we perform radiofrequency treatment according to international medical and laboratory standards, after discussing your case with you and determining together that this is the most appropriate treatment for your condition.
Did you know…
- While lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) affects people of all ages, it is most common in adults aged 30 to 50?
- People whose jobs require repetitive movements—such as plumbers, carpenters, painters, cooks—are more likely to develop lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)
- Performing a repetitive activity for at least two hours per day can contribute to the development of medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow)?