This month’s column was more about artificial intelligence (AI) than elbow pain. I wanted to see how artificial intelligence could be useful in writing this month’s column. I chose a topic that I knew very well so that I could assess the relevance of the article. “Write a journal article comparing tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow.” This is the task I asked the AI application, ChatGPT, to perform. A very simple task for a certified hand therapist. Apparently, this is also an easy task for the AI. In just a few seconds, the text below was produced.
Please read this and learn more about these elbow conditions. On a deeper level, think about AI and its impact on society. I’d be willing to bet it will change life and work as we know it. The potential for good and bad change has not yet been identified, but there is no doubt that it will happen, and the potential for good and bad change will be there.
I was born in 1967. I grew up playing the video game “Pong”. I remember being amazed by the two lines and a dot that acted as a ping-pong game. It was almost magical. More than 50 years later, AI is now in its infancy. Who knows where this is going. If it evolves the way computing has transformed since the introduction of “Pong,” the capabilities of AI may be something we may not even understand at this point. If a man in his fifties, semi-computer scientist like me, can produce an acceptable article, I can’t imagine what a computer expert can already do with AI. Without further ado, presented by AI and proofread by a hand therapist:
Tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow, despite their names, can affect people from a variety of backgrounds, not just athletes. These two conditions, while sharing similarities, have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Understanding the differences between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, occurs when the outer portion of the elbow tendons become inflamed due to repetitive movements of the arm and wrist. This condition is not exclusive to tennis players; This can affect anyone engaged in activities involving gripping movements and repetitive arm movements.
In contrast, golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the inner part of the elbow, where the tendons attach to the bony bump. These conditions are often caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm during activities like golf, hence the name. However, golfer’s elbow can also develop from non-golf activities, such as lifting weights or using a hammer.
Although both conditions manifest as pain around the elbow, the location and nature of the pain differ. Tennis elbow generally presents with pain on the outside of the elbow and can radiate towards the forearm. Conversely, golfer’s elbow presents with pain on the inner side of the elbow, often radiating to the forearm as well.
In addition to pain, people with tennis elbow may experience weakness in their grip, making it difficult to perform simple tasks like holding a cup of coffee or turning a doorknob. People suffering from golfer’s elbow may notice stiffness in the elbow, making it difficult to fully straighten the arm.
Diagnosing tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow involves a physical exam and, in some cases, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs. Risk factors for tennis elbow include age, as it typically affects people between the ages of 30 and 50, and participation in repetitive gripping activities. Golfer’s elbow, while common among golfers, can also develop in those who repeatedly strain their forearm muscles.
Conservative treatments are often the first line of defense in both cases. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers can help relieve symptoms. Therapy plays a crucial role, focusing on strengthening and stretching exercises tailored to the affected area. In more severe cases, a splint or splint may be recommended to reduce pressure on the affected tendons.
For persistent cases, medical interventions such as corticosteroid injections or, in rare cases, surgery may be considered. Surgical options include tendon repair for severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments.
Prevention of tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow involves proper technique and use of equipment in sports, as well as ergonomic considerations in daily activities. Strengthening the forearm muscles through targeted exercises incorporating breaks during repetitive tasks can reduce the risk of developing these conditions.
In summary, tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow are separate but related conditions that affect the elbow tendons due to overuse. Although both can cause pain and functional limitations, understanding the nuances between them is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment. Whether you are an avid tennis player, golfer, or someone who deals with these issues on a daily basis, early intervention and proper care are the key to a full recovery.
Frank Grispino is an occupational therapist, certified hand therapist and clinic director of ARC PT+ in Maryville, Missouri.
EDITOR’S NOTE: As with all columns, the opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of the Forum or its staff. Readers should not interpret opinions expressed by human or artificial intelligence as medical advice. Individual decisions regarding treatments should be made in consultation with your doctor. Please consult a column by forum owner Ken Garner which was published on page A4 to learn more about the journal’s policy regarding the use of AI.
