Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow: Which One Do You Have?
Sore elbow when you grip a mug, lift a bag or swing a club? Outer and inner elbow pain need different plans, and our award winning physio team works out which one you have.
- Same day appointments
- No referral needed
- Tendon focused elbow care
- ⭐5.0 Google Rating240+ reviews
- 🏆2026 Award WinnerBayside Business Awards
- ⏱️60 Minute First VisitFind the real cause
- 💳HICAPSClaim on the spot
Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow explained
Tennis Elbow or Golfer's Elbow: What Is the Difference?
Tennis elbow is pain on the outside of your elbow from an overloaded tendon that lifts your wrist and fingers. Golfer's elbow is pain on the inside, from the tendon that bends your wrist and helps you grip. Despite the names, most people get them from work, the gym or daily life. The good news: both usually get much better with the right strength based physiotherapy.
Does This Sound Like You?
- Pain on the outside or inside of your elbow when you grip
- Lifting a kettle, mug or shopping bag hurts
- Typing, mouse work or tools make it ache by the end of the day
- Pull ups, rows or curls flare your elbow at the gym
- A weaker grip, or dropping things more than usual
- Not sure if it is tennis elbow or golfer's elbow
Who we help with elbow pain
- 💻Desk and mouse workers
- 🔨Tradies and Workers Comp
- 🏋️Gym goers and lifters
- 🎾Tennis and racquet players
- ⛳Golfers
- 🧗Climbers and pull up fans
Two Clinics, Same Day Appointments
Book a physio at Bexley North or Marrickville, whichever is closer to home, work or the gym. Same award winning team at both.
20 Shaw Street, Bexley North. Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm, Saturday 8am to 1pm.
Book Bexley North →Inside World Gym, 4 Carrington Road, Marrickville. Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm.
Book Marrickville →Spot the difference
Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow Side by Side
The quickest way to tell tennis elbow from golfer's elbow is which side of the elbow hurts. Here is how our physios compare them.
Where it hurts
Outside of the elbow on the bony bump, sometimes spreading into the forearm
Inside of the elbow on the bony bump, sometimes spreading into the forearm
What it feels like
An ache or burning on the outer elbow, often with a weaker grip
An ache or sharp pain on the inner elbow when you grip or swing
What makes it worse
Gripping with your palm down, typing, mouse work and lifting a kettle
Gripping with your palm up, pull ups, curls, throwing and swinging a club
Common causes
An overloaded wrist extensor tendon from desk work, tools, racquets or lifting
An overloaded wrist flexor tendon from tools, gym pulling, golf or throwing
Simple self check
Outer elbow pain when you lift your wrist back against resistance
Inner elbow pain when you bend your wrist forward against resistance
Typical recovery
Clear improvement in 6 to 12 weeks, stubborn cases 3 to 6 months
Clear improvement in 6 to 12 weeks, stubborn cases 3 to 6 months
Best first step
A physio assessment, smarter gripping and a tendon loading plan
A physio assessment, easing pulling and swinging load, then tendon loading
AIt is more likely tennis elbow if the pain sits on the outside of your elbow and gripping or lifting with your palm down hurts.
BIt is more likely golfer's elbow if the pain sits on the inside of your elbow and pulling, curling or swinging a club hurts.
You can have both, and a physio assessment tells you which, with same day appointments at Bexley North and Marrickville.
Real Patient Recoveries
★★★★★
Very happy with Julian's professional services in treating my shoulder and elbow pain. Would highly recommend… Convenient location with parking and transport.
Kevin V.Treated by Julian · Google review
★★★★★
Had a long term shoulder injury which was restricting movement and causing pain. Sam provided a structured plan and guidance to keep training safely. The pain is completely gone and previous strength is returning.
Ursula M.Treated by Sam · Google review
★★★★★
Highly recommend PHYZFIT for any sporting injuries. Ari was professional and was able to help me get back to fitness for a tournament.
Pete M.Treated by Ari · Google review
More from our 240+ Google reviews
Outer Elbow, Inner Elbow or Something Else?
Elbow pain can come from a few places. Your physiotherapist works out which of these is driving yours, because each one needs a different plan.
01Tennis Elbow
Feels like: an ache on the outer elbow, worse gripping, typing or lifting with your palm down.
The tendon that lifts your wrist is overloaded. Strength work and smarter gripping settle most cases of tennis elbow.
Read about tennis elbow physio →02Golfer's Elbow
Feels like: an ache on the inner elbow, worse gripping, pulling, curling or swinging a club.
The tendon that bends your wrist and grips is overloaded. A strength based plan settles most cases of golfer's elbow.
Read about golfer's elbow physio →03Both Sides at Once
Feels like: soreness on the inside and outside of the elbow after heavy gripping work.
Trades, climbing and heavy lifting can overload both tendons. We test each side and load them in the right order.
04Neck Related Arm Pain
Feels like: an ache spreading from your neck down the arm, sometimes with tingling.
An irritated nerve in the neck can mimic tennis elbow. Your physio checks your neck at your first visit so nothing is missed.
Read about neck pain physio →05Ulnar Nerve Irritation
Feels like: tingling or pins and needles into your ring and little fingers.
The nerve on the inside of the elbow can get irritated alongside golfer's elbow. We check it so the right thing gets treated.
06Long Standing Tendon Pain
Feels like: elbow pain that has hung around for months and flares whenever you do more.
Stubborn tendons on either side need a structured loading plan, and sometimes shockwave, to finally turn the corner.
Read about shockwave therapy →Not sure which one you have? Call (02) 8021 0969
Your options
Why See a Physio First for Elbow Pain?
Resting it, painkillers and massage can all take the edge off. Physiotherapy adds a clear diagnosis, tendon loading and a plan so the pain stays away.
Questions first? Call (02) 8021 0969
How Our Elbow Physios Get You Gripping Again
Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow load different tendons, so every elbow physiotherapy plan starts by finding which side is sore and what is overloading it.
- 1
Find the Side
A full 60 minute assessment of your elbow, wrist, neck and grip, to confirm tennis elbow, golfer's elbow or something else.
- 2
Settle the Pain
Hands on treatment, smarter ways to grip and lift, and shockwave if your elbow tendon is stubborn.
- 3
Build Strength
Progressive tendon loading for the right forearm muscles, so your elbow handles work, gym and sport.
- 4
Back to Life
Gripping, typing, lifting and swinging pain free, with a plan that keeps it from coming back.
Treatments we may use
- Shockwave therapy
- Dry needling
- Hands on therapy
- Individualised rehabilitation programming
Related conditions we treat
How Long Do Tennis and Golfer's Elbow Take to Get Better?
Every case is different, but this is what recovery usually looks like with a physiotherapist guiding you.
- First 1 to 2 weeks
Settle the Pain
We calm the sore tendon with hands on treatment and smarter ways to grip and lift. Daily tasks start to feel easier.
- Weeks 2 to 6
Build Strength
Progressive tendon exercises for the sore side rebuild your grip. Typing, carrying and light training feel better week by week.
- Weeks 6 to 12
Back to Full Load
Heavier lifting, tools, racquets and golf clubs come back, with a plan that keeps the pain from returning.
Tennis elbow or golfer's elbow that has lasted many months can take 3 to 6 months to fully settle. Your physio will give you your own timeline at your first visit, or call (02) 8021 0969 to ask.
Your first appointment
What to Expect at Your First Elbow Physio Appointment
60minutes, one on one
with your physio
Unlike many clinics, your first visit is a full 60 minutes. That time lets your physiotherapist test both sides of your elbow, find the root cause and build a clear, structured plan with you.
What to wear and bring
- Short sleeves or loose gym gear so we can test your elbow, wrist and neck
- Any scans, reports or referral letters you have
- Your health fund card, HICAPS lets you claim on the spot
Same day appointments available
- 0 to 10 min
Your Story
We listen to where your elbow hurts, what you grip and lift each day, and what you want to get back to.
- 10 to 30 min
Full Assessment
We test both elbow tendons, your grip strength, wrist, neck and nerves, and screen for anything more serious.
- 30 to 40 min
Your Answer
You find out if it is tennis elbow, golfer's elbow or something else, in plain English, and what recovery looks like.
- 40 to 55 min
Hands On Treatment
Hands on therapy, grip changes and your first tendon exercises, to ease your pain that same day.
- 55 to 60 min
Your Plan
A structured plan and two or three simple exercises, so you know exactly what to do next.
What You Can Do at Home for Elbow Pain
Three safe things that help most people while you wait for your appointment.
- ✋01
Change How You Grip
Hold tools, bags and clubs a little looser and use both hands to carry, so the sore elbow tendon does less work.
- 💻02
Break Up Repetitive Tasks
Keep your mouse close and your wrist relaxed, and take a short break every 30 minutes to move your arm.
- 🧊03
Ease the Flare
Ice for 10 to 15 minutes after a busy day, and back off the tasks that spike it rather than resting the arm completely.
Elbow pain not settling in a week or two? Call (02) 8021 0969
?Quick answers
Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow Quick Answers
Fast answers to the questions people ask most when they cannot tell tennis elbow from golfer's elbow.
Is tennis elbow on the inside or outside?
The outside
Tennis elbow is on the outside of the elbow, on the bony bump on the thumb side. Golfer's elbow is on the inside, the side closest to your body when your palm faces forward.
Can you get tennis elbow without playing tennis?
Yes, most do
Most people with tennis elbow never play tennis. Typing, mouse work, tools, gym training and lifting with your palm down are far more common causes. The same goes for golfer's elbow and golf.
Which is more common, tennis or golfer's elbow?
Tennis elbow
Tennis elbow is several times more common than golfer's elbow. Both are overloaded forearm tendons, and both usually respond well to a strength based physiotherapy plan.
Do I need a scan to tell the difference?
Usually not
Most people do not. A physio can usually tell them apart at your first visit with simple grip and resistance tests. Imaging helps only when pain is not improving, a tear is suspected, or nerve symptoms persist.
Does a brace help tennis or golfer's elbow?
Sometimes
A counterforce brace can ease pain during work or sport for some people with either condition. It works best alongside a strengthening program, not instead of one.
Why does my elbow pain tingle into my fingers?
Check the nerve
Tingling into your ring and little fingers can mean the ulnar nerve is irritated, which can sit alongside golfer's elbow. Neck problems can mimic tennis elbow too. Worsening numbness or weakness needs a GP review.
When to See a Physio, a Doctor, or Get a Scan
Most tennis elbow and golfer's elbow is not serious, but knowing the warning signs matters. Here is how your physiotherapist decides what you need.
✓Book a Physio If
These are the most common reasons people see us.
- Outer or inner elbow pain has lasted more than a week or two
- Gripping, typing, lifting or swinging keeps flaring it
- Your grip feels weak or you keep dropping things
- It stops you working, training or sleeping
!See a GP or Hospital Now If
These red flags need urgent medical care.
- Your elbow looks deformed or you cannot move it after a fall
- A hot, red, swollen elbow, especially with a fever
- Numbness or weakness in your hand that is getting worse
- A sudden pop with bruising and loss of strength
- Arm pain with chest pain, shortness of breath or sweating (call 000)
?Do You Need a Scan?
Most people with tennis elbow or golfer's elbow do not.
- We can usually tell tennis elbow from golfer's elbow at your first visit without imaging
- We refer for an ultrasound, MRI or nerve tests only if you are not improving as expected, we suspect a tear, or nerve symptoms persist
- If you need one, we liaise with your GP or specialist for you
Unsure if it is urgent? Call (02) 8021 0969
🏆 2026 Award Winner
Meet Your Award Winning Elbow Physios
Winners of Outstanding Health Improvement Services at the Bayside Local Business Awards 2026, helping people with tennis elbow and golfer's elbow in Bexley North and Marrickville every day.
Julian De Rosa
Physiotherapist Head physio for Fraser Park FC with a Master of Physiotherapy. Has competed in ICN natural bodybuilding and is passionate about helping people with lower back pain and chronic pain.
Read bio →
Sam Nunan
Physiotherapist Head physio for the Wests Tigers reserve grade team in the NSW Cup, and formerly with the Canterbury Bulldogs junior pathways. Loves powerlifting, cricket and rugby league.
Read bio →
Ari Moushis
Physiotherapist An Ironman triathlete who is excellent with runners, cyclists and swimmers, with a background in powerlifting, tennis and golf.
Read bio →
Easy Ways to Access Elbow Pain Physio
Claim your tennis elbow or golfer's elbow physiotherapy on the spot with HICAPS and your health fund, or use a Medicare care plan, DVA, Workers Comp or CTP.
- 💳Private Health InsuranceAll major health funds. Claim on the spot if you have extras cover.
- 🩺Medicare Care PlanHave a GP care plan? Bring it along and we'll handle the rest.
- 🎖️DVAVeterans with a DVA referral are bulk billed.
- 👷Workers CompensationSIRA approved. We liaise with your doctor and insurer.
- 🚗Car Accident (CTP)SIRA approved CTP physiotherapy after a road accident.
- 🤝NDISSelf managed and plan managed participants welcome.
Not sure if you're covered? Call (02) 8021 0969 and we'll check for you.
Before You Book
Tennis Elbow vs Golfer's Elbow Questions, Answered
Quick answers about tennis elbow vs golfer's elbow from our physios in Bexley North and Marrickville. Still unsure? Call us on (02) 8021 0969 and we'll help you out.
Physio Bexley North
20 Shaw Street, Bexley North NSW 2207
Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm
Saturday 8am to 1pm
Physio Marrickville
4 Carrington Road, inside World Gym, Marrickville NSW 2204
Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm
Tennis elbow hurts on the outside of the elbow, golfer's elbow on the inside. Both are overloaded forearm tendons, and both usually get much better with a strength based physiotherapy plan.
Yes, though it is less common. Heavy gripping work like trades, climbing or lifting can overload both sides. Your physio tests each elbow tendon and builds a plan that covers both.
No. Most people with tennis elbow or golfer's elbow never play either sport. Typing, tools, gym pulling and lifting kids or shopping are far more common triggers.
No. You can book straight in at Bexley North or at Marrickville inside World Gym. You only need a referral for a Medicare care plan, DVA, Workers Compensation or CTP.
Most people do not. We can usually tell them apart at your first visit. We refer for an ultrasound or MRI only if you are not improving as expected, we suspect a tear, or nerve symptoms persist.
Full rest rarely fixes either one, because tendons need load to get stronger. We ease the tasks that flare it and give you exercises that keep the arm working while it heals.
Your first visit is a full 60 minutes, one on one. That gives us time to find the real cause and build a clear, structured plan.
Yes. We have HICAPS at both clinics, so you can claim on the spot. We also see Medicare care plan, DVA, Workers Compensation and CTP patients.
Ready to Feel Like Yourself Again?
Same day physio for tennis elbow and golfer's elbow in Bexley North and Marrickville, no referral needed, and an award winning team in your corner.
Find Your Elbow Pain Physio
Two award winning clinics. Bexley North for Kingsgrove, Earlwood, Bardwell Park, Bexley and Rockdale. Marrickville inside World Gym for Dulwich Hill, Sydenham, Petersham, Tempe and the Inner West.
Physio Bexley North
20 Shaw Street, Bexley North NSW 2207
Monday to Friday 7am to 7pm, Saturday 8am to 1pm
Physio near
- Kingsgrove
- Bardwell Park
- Earlwood
- Bexley
- Rockdale
- Turrella
Physio Marrickville
4 Carrington Road, inside World Gym
Monday to Friday 8am to 7pm, private on site parking
Physio near
- Dulwich Hill
- Sydenham
- Petersham
- Newtown
- Tempe
- Enmore
Ready to Grip, Lift and Swing Pain Free?
Book a 60 minute elbow physiotherapy assessment for tennis elbow or golfer's elbow in Bexley North, close to Kingsgrove, Earlwood and Bardwell Park, or Marrickville for Dulwich Hill, Sydenham and the Inner West. Same day appointments, no referral needed.
- 2026 Award Winner
- 5.0 from 240+ Google reviews
- Same day appointments
- No referral needed
- HICAPS claim on the spot
Got a Question? Contact Us
Not sure if it is tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, or whether physio is right for you? Our admin team is happy to help.
Bexley North: Mon to Fri 7am to 7pm, Sat 8am to 1pmMarrickville: Mon to Fri 8am to 7pm
Send an Enquiry
🏆 Award Winning Clinic 2026
Your Journey to Better Health Starts With an Award Winning Team
Same day appointments available