Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow

Tennis Elbow & Golfer's Elbow: Non-Surgical Treatment in Palm Beach

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are overuse conditions involving degeneration and micro-tearing of the tendons attaching the forearm muscles to the elbow. Despite the names, these conditions affect far more non-athletes than athletes. Anyone who performs repetitive gripping, lifting, or tool use can develop these conditions.

Both conditions respond well to orthobiologic treatment in many cases, making them among the more common presentations at Palm Beach Regenerative. Request an appointment at Palm Beach Regenerative.

What Are Tennis Elbow & Golfer's Elbow?

Tennis elbow involves the common extensor tendons on the lateral (outer) side of the elbow. Golfer's elbow involves the common flexor tendons on the medial (inner) side. Both conditions involve a process of tendon degeneration (tendinosis) rather than true inflammation, which is why rest and anti-inflammatory treatments alone often provide only temporary relief.

The tendinosis process involves disorganization of collagen within the tendon, which reduces its ability to withstand repetitive loading.

Signs and Symptoms

• Tennis elbow: Pain on the outer elbow, worsening with gripping, typing, or lifting
• Golfer's elbow: Pain on the inner elbow, worsening with gripping, throwing, or wrist flexion
• Weak grip strength
• Pain radiating from the elbow into the forearm
• Difficulty with everyday tasks such as shaking hands, opening jars, lifting a coffee cup
• Chronic, recurring symptoms despite rest

Common Causes and Risk Factors

• Repetitive gripping, lifting, or racket/club use
• Manual occupations involving tools or keyboards
• Sudden overload or change in activity level
• Age-related tendon degeneration
• Prior elbow injuries

How It Is Diagnosed

Clinical examination, including provocative tests for lateral or medial elbow pain, is usually sufficient for diagnosis. Ultrasound or MRI can confirm the degree of tendon degeneration and rule out other causes of elbow pain.

Dr. Ghattas uses diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound as part of the evaluation to directly visualize tendon quality and confirm the treatment target.

Conventional Treatment Options

• Rest and activity modification
• Physical therapy: Eccentric loading exercises shown to support tendon health
• Counterforce bracing to reduce tendon load during activity
• Steroid injections: May provide temporary relief but have been shown to weaken tendon tissue with repeated use
• Surgery (rare): For refractory cases that have not responded to extensive conservative and injection-based treatment

The Palm Beach Regenerative Approach

Tennis and golfer's elbow are among the conditions best supported by orthobiologic treatment evidence. Image-guided platelet injection, delivered precisely to the degenerative area of the tendon under real-time ultrasound, provides growth factors that support the body's natural tendon healing processes.

Dr. Ghattas uses Regenexx Super Concentrated Platelet (SCP) preparations, delivered with direct ultrasound visualization to confirm accurate tendon placement. This precision is critical for optimal outcomes.

Most patients with tennis or golfer's elbow who have not responded to conventional care find this a well-tolerated and effective approach. Recovery involves a short period of activity modification followed by progressive loading of the tendon.

The BioMod Advantage:  At Palm Beach Regenerative, treatment does not end with a single injection. Through our BioMod Lab, Dr. Ghattas may combine your orthobiologic procedure with MLS Robotic Laser Therapy to reduce inflammation and support tissue recovery, alongside customized Xymogen supplement protocols designed to optimize your body's healing environment. This integrated, concierge approach is what sets Palm Beach Regenerative apart from a standard injection clinic.

Like all medical procedures, orthobiologic treatments have potential risks and benefits. Results vary by individual. Not all patients are candidates. Dr. Ghattas will discuss your specific situation, realistic expectations, and all treatment options, including when surgery or other interventions may be more appropriate.