At Specialty Medical Center, we offer comprehensive diagnosis, treatment, and management of common orthopedic conditions such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golf elbow (medial epicondylitis). Both conditions involve pain and inflammation around the elbow joint due to repetitive strain or overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm.

Tennis elbow commonly affects the outer side of the elbow and occurs when repetitive tasks, such as playing racket sports, typing, gardening, or other activities involving repetitive gripping, twisting, or wrist extension, cause microscopic tears and degeneration in the tendons. Similarly, a golfer’s elbow develops on the inner side of the elbow, resulting from repeated strain or stress on tendons involved in wrist flexion and rotation, typically associated with golfing, throwing sports, weightlifting, or repetitive gripping and wrist-flexing tasks.

Our specialists understand that multiple factors can contribute to these conditions, including improper technique, poor conditioning, inadequate warm-up, and unsuitable or improperly fitted equipment. Additionally, patients whose occupations involve repetitive arm movements, such as carpenters, plumbers, assembly line workers, and office professionals, are at increased risk.

Our team of experienced therapists works closely with patients to identify the underlying causes of their symptoms, develop personalized treatment plans, and implement preventive strategies. Through accurate diagnosis, specialized therapies, targeted rehabilitation exercises, and expert guidance, we help our patients achieve long-term relief, restore optimal function, and safely return to their daily activities and hobbies.

At Specialty Medical Center, our experienced medical professionals specialize in diagnosing and treating conditions such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis).

Tennis elbow typically presents as pain and tenderness on the outer portion of the elbow. Patients at Specialty Medical Center commonly report discomfort during activities like gripping objects, twisting their wrists, or lifting items. Pain might also radiate down into the forearm and wrist, making everyday movements such as turning a doorknob, opening jars, or shaking hands uncomfortable. Our specialists also note that stiffness and weakness in forearm muscles are typical symptoms, particularly during repetitive gripping movements or wrist extension.

Golfer’s elbow, on the other hand, involves pain and tenderness along the inner side of the elbow. Patients often experience increased symptoms when bending the wrist forward, gripping firmly, or performing repetitive forearm activities. Pain from a golfer’s elbow can extend down the inside of the forearm, intensifying during activities like lifting objects or making a fist. We frequently see patients exhibiting stiffness, reduced grip strength, and discomfort when twisting or rotating their wrists inward.

Both tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow typically develop gradually, starting as mild discomfort and potentially progressing to persistent pain that interferes with daily routines. Early intervention by our specialized healthcare providers can help reduce symptom severity, prevent chronic issues, and promote faster recovery.

At Specialty Medical Center, our expert team understands that tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are common yet challenging conditions affecting many active individuals. These conditions often present as inflammation, pain, and tenderness around the elbow joint, typically caused by repetitive strain and overuse, whether from sports, occupational activities, or daily tasks involving frequent wrist and arm movements.

If you’re experiencing tennis or golfer’s elbow, you might wonder if you can safely continue your usual sports or physical activities. At Specialty Medical Center, we emphasize that the answer depends largely on the severity of your symptoms, the extent of injury, and professional evaluation. Mild cases may allow for continued participation if adjustments are made, such as modifying technique, reducing intensity, or decreasing frequency, enabling the elbow to heal effectively. However, it’s essential to closely monitor your symptoms—if pain increases or discomfort worsens during activity, we recommend immediately stopping and allowing the elbow to rest.

Our team of specialists believes that temporarily reducing or avoiding activities that trigger repetitive stress is critical for optimal recovery. Persisting through pain without proper management can prolong inflammation, slow recovery, and potentially worsen the injury, especially if it is an auto accident injury. To facilitate healing, our experts—including orthopedic specialists—can provide personalized guidance, recommending specific stretching and strengthening exercises, technique modifications, and supportive devices such as braces or bands designed to alleviate stress on your elbow.

Once symptoms improve, our healthcare professionals will help you gradually and safely reintroduce your sport or chosen activity. Careful attention to building up intensity and frequency progressively is essential for preventing recurrence. Before fully resuming your sports or activities, we’ll ensure your elbow has regained sufficient strength and flexibility and remains pain-free during activity.

Your health and long-term well-being are our top priorities. With proper management, expert consultation, and attentive care, participation in sports and activities can be possible despite tennis or golfer’s elbow. Always listen to your body’s signals, and reach out to our experienced medical professionals for comprehensive evaluation, treatment, and personalized services to maintain optimal elbow health and prevent future injury.

At Specialty Medical Center, we understand that recovery from tennis elbow or golf elbow can vary significantly from person to person, depending on factors such as injury severity, chosen treatment approaches, and overall health.

For mild cases, patients typically experience noticeable improvement within four to six weeks when treated promptly with conservative methods such as rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, and activity modifications. At Specialty Medical Center, our team emphasizes early intervention and personalized care to facilitate optimal healing.

Moderate cases may require additional interventions, often involving structured physical therapy programs available right here. Our specialized rehabilitation team provides targeted exercises that strengthen forearm muscles, stretch affected tendons, and effectively manage pain, typically helping patients experience significant relief within six to twelve weeks.

In instances of severe or prolonged elbow pain, recovery may extend over several months or even up to a year. Specialty Medical Center is well-equipped to manage these chronic conditions by offering advanced treatments and other minimally invasive procedures. Surgical intervention is considered only after conservative treatments have been exhausted, typically when pain and symptoms persist for more than six to twelve months.

Prompt recognition of symptoms and proactive management under the guidance of our specialized medical team can significantly reduce healing time. We emphasize the importance of strictly adhering to personalized rehabilitation protocols, preventive measures, and a gradual return to sports or daily activities to ensure the most efficient path to complete recovery.

Because recovery timelines can differ widely among individuals, we encourage you to meet with one of our experienced healthcare providers at Specialty Medical Center. Together, we will accurately assess your condition and design a personalized treatment and rehabilitation plan tailored to your unique needs and goals.

Take the first step toward lasting relief from elbow pain—our team is here to help you heal and get back to doing what you love. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Sterling Heights, MI and Dearborn, MI. We serve patients from Sterling Heights MI, Dearborn MI, Detroit MI, Birmingham MI, Allen Park MI, Warren MI, and BEYOND!