Medically reviewed by Derek Wimmer, PA
Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are overuse tendinopathies where the forearm tendons attach at the elbow. At Wimmer they are treated non-surgically — most often with focused shockwave therapy, PRP, and image-guided injections — because degenerative tendon changes rarely resolve with rest alone.
Common causes & symptoms
- Pain on the outside (tennis) or inside (golfer's) of the elbow
- Weak or painful grip — shaking hands, lifting a coffee cup, opening jars
- Pain that flares with racquet sports, golf, or repetitive gripping
- Aching that lingers after play and slowly worsens over months
- Stiffness that rest and braces haven't fixed
When to seek care
If elbow pain is limiting your activity, lingering for more than a couple of weeks, waking you at night, or causing swelling or instability, it's worth a proper evaluation. Early, accurate assessment often opens up more — and less invasive — options.
How we evaluate it
Your visit begins with an unhurried conversation and an in-office ultrasound, so we can see the area clearly. From there, Derek builds a personalized, honest plan — and explains exactly what each option can and cannot do for your situation.
Non-surgical options we may consider
- Focused shockwave therapy — a first-line, drug-free option for stubborn elbow tendinopathy
- PRP injections — image-guided support for the degenerated tendon itself
- Image-guided injections — precise placement confirmed on ultrasound
- Activity & equipment guidance — so the fix lasts when you return to play
Keeping you active
For golfers, pickleball and tennis players, boaters, and active retirees, the goal isn't just less pain — it's getting back to the life you love and staying there. That's the heart of how we plan your care.
Frequently asked questions
Because chronic epicondylitis is usually tendon degeneration, not simple inflammation. The tissue needs a repair stimulus — which is exactly what therapies like focused shockwave and PRP are designed to provide.
Usually not forever, and often not entirely. We build a plan around your sport — modifying load while the tendon recovers, then returning you progressively.
Both have good evidence at the elbow. Severity, duration, and your goals decide it — sometimes we use them in sequence. You'll get a clear recommendation at your evaluation.
