Tennis Elbow and Golfers Elbow

Tennis elbow is an inflammation, soreness, or pain on the outside of the upper arm near the elbow. Golfer's elbow is an inflammation, soreness or pain on the inside of the upper arm near the elbow. Tennis elbow is actually more common among golfers than golfer's elbow.

Symptoms:

Pain and tenderness on outer side of left elbow (tennis elbow) and inner side of right elbow (golfer's elbow). Pain may be greatest at the top of the backswing and at impact.

Do:

• Consider switching to graphite shafts and low compression balls to decrease elbow strain at impact
• Practice on real turf instead of rubber mats when possible
• Ease up on grip pressure and loosen up on the elbows during the swing
• Bring the club back slowly during the backswing
• Maintain a smooth transition from the backswing to the downswing
• Move the ball to a safe spot to avoid contact with rocks, tree roots, sprinklers, etc.

Don't:

• Release the hands prematurely at the top of the backswing (casting maneuver)
• Decelerate the club before impact