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Elbow Pain

Tennis player injuring his elbow

About

Golf and tennis players are prone to specific sports injuries due to repetitive stress.

Injuries like tennis and golf elbow are not typically dangerous, but they can put you out of commission for a while. We understand that getting back into the game fast is important, so we offer regenerative medicine, pain management, and other treatments to help you feel better quickly.

Diagram showing tennis elbow and golf elbow anatomy

What Causes Tennis and Golf Elbow?

As their names suggest, tennis and golf elbow are caused by repetitive arm movements while playing the respective sports.

Repetitive stress, often by forceful wrist and finger motions, can make the elbow feel stiff. In these injuries, hands and wrists may feel weak as well.

What Is Elbow Pain?

Elbow pain affects a wide range of people - not just athletes.

While tennis elbow and golf elbow are among the most common causes, elbow pain can also result from bursitis, nerve compression, fractures, and age-related joint degeneration. Understanding the specific cause of your elbow pain is the first step toward effective elbow pain treatment at Global Clinic. For more information on tennis and golf elbow, visit the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

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Services for Tennis and Golf Elbow

The RICE method, or “rest, ice, compression, elevation,” is excellent for addressing sports injuries.

Additionally, regenerative therapies can prove effective in improving your condition quickly. Physical therapy can help you employ proper recovery techniques and stretches to prevent future injuries. All of these services are offered here at Global Clinic.

  • Regenerative Medicine
  • Pain Management
  • Physical Therapy

Types of Elbow Pain We Treat

Our non-surgical approach combines multiple therapies for faster recovery and lasting relief.
  • Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis) — inflammation of the tendons on the outer side of the elbow from repetitive wrist and arm motions. Common in tennis players, painters, plumbers, and office workers.
  • Golf Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) — inflammation of the tendons on the inner side of the elbow. Caused by repetitive gripping, swinging, or throwing motions.
  • Elbow Bursitis — swelling of the bursa sac at the tip of the elbow from prolonged pressure or direct impact.
  • Cubital Tunnel Syndrome — compression of the ulnar nerve causing pain, numbness, and tingling in the ring and little fingers.
  • Elbow Arthritis — breakdown of cartilage in the elbow joint causing chronic pain and stiffness.
  • Sports Injuries — sprains, strains, and fractures from falls, direct blows, or overuse during athletic activity.
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What Results Can I Expect?

Through symptom and pain management, mobility exercises, and other personalized care regimens, you can decrease or eliminate elbow pain and restore mobility.

Our therapists have over 20 years of experience in the most effective pain treatments from across the globe and put it to work for you to create a comprehensive, personalized plan of care. It takes about six weeks to recover from golf elbow fully. This time can be reduced with proper therapy and treatment techniques. In most cases, surgery isn’t required to address this injury. While in treatment, we recommend you take it easy and take proper steps toward helping your body recover.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does tennis elbow treatment take?

Most patients with tennis or golf elbow notice significant improvement within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent elbow pain treatment. Mild cases may resolve faster with physical therapy and bracing. Chronic or severe cases may require PRP injections or a longer rehabilitation program.

Yes — the vast majority of elbow pain conditions including tennis elbow, golf elbow, and bursitis respond well to non-surgical treatment. At Global Clinic, surgery is always a last resort. Most patients achieve full recovery through physical therapy, regenerative medicine, and targeted pain management.

Complete rest is not recommended. Gentle movement and targeted physical therapy are more effective than full rest. Your therapist will guide you on safe activity levels and modifications to prevent further tendon irritation while the elbow heals.

Yes — PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections have shown strong results for chronic tennis elbow that has not responded to physical therapy alone. The treatment uses your body's own growth factors to repair damaged tendon tissue and reduce inflammation at the source.

Most major insurance plans cover physical therapy and pain management for elbow pain. Call our Niles office at (847) 299-7000 to verify your coverage before your first appointment.