Epicondylitis is a form of tendonitis that affects the elbow joint. It is the inflammation of a tendon (the cord of connective tissue by which the muscle is attached to the bone).

Epicondylitis may occur in people who practice racquet sports or golf, as well as in people who overuse their arms. Epicondylitis can affect the outside (lateral epicondylitis) or the inside (medial epicondylitis) of the elbow. External epicondylitis, more commonly known as "tennis elbow," is the inflammation of the tendon attached to the muscles that allow for the upward extension of the wrist and fingers. Internal epicondylitis, also known as "golfer's elbow," is the inflammation of the tendon attached to the muscles that allow the wrist and fingers to bend downward. The main symptoms of epicondylitis are a burning sensation around the elbow (on the outside or the inside) and difficulty bending and/or extending the wrist or gripping something in the hand. Physiotherapy, either alone or combined with anti-inflammatory drugs and/or a cortisone injection, can help promote a quick recovery. Once the inflammation has subsided, the physiotherapist can teach exercises designed to strengthen the target muscles, in order to prevent a recurrence of the problem.