Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a form of tendinitis that causes inflammation and pain where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. It doesn’t only affect golfers—it’s common in anyone who performs repetitive arm or wrist movements.

Golfer’s elbow affects the inside of the elbow and is similar to tennis elbow, which involves the outside of the elbow. This condition can interfere with daily tasks, sports, and even simple movements like gripping or lifting objects. With the appropriate care, most people recover fully without surgery.

What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow is caused by overuse or strain on the forearm muscles, especially through repetitive motions. Common causes include:

• Sports like golf, baseball, or tennis
• Frequent use of tools like hammers or screwdrivers
• Repetitive lifting, especially with improper form
• Poor posture or weak shoulder and wrist muscles
• Jobs that require gripping or twisting movements (e.g., construction, plumbing, typing)

Non-athletes can still develop golfer’s elbow with regular, repetitive arm movements.

What Are the Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?

Signs of golfer’s elbow include:

• Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow
• Stiffness in the elbow joint
• Weak grip strength
• Pain that worsens with wrist flexion or gripping
• Tingling or numbness that may extend to the ring and pinky fingers
  • These symptoms are symbolic of ulnar nerve irritation and can be found in conjunction with golfer’s elbow

Symptoms can appear gradually or suddenly, depending on the activity and injury.

When Should I See a Doctor for Golfer’s Elbow?

Make an appointment with a healthcare provider if:

• Your elbow pain lasts more than a few weeks
• Pain worsens with everyday activities
• You have weakness, tingling, or trouble gripping
• Rest, ice, and over-the-counter meds aren’t helping

How Is Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosed?

Your Orthopedic surgeon or sports medicine specialist will diagnose golfer’s elbow based on:

• Medical history and discussion of your symptoms
• Physical examination to test pain levels, range of motion, and grip strength
• Imaging tests such as an X-ray (to rule out other conditions) or an MRI (in more severe cases)

Getting an accurate diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment for inner elbow pain.

How Is Golfer’s Elbow Treated?

Most cases of golfer’s elbow improve with nonoperative treatment. The goal is to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore function without stressing the joint.

Nonsurgical Treatments

Common nonoperative treatments include:

• Rest and avoiding repetitive or aggravating activities
• Ice therapy to reduce pain and swelling
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or naproxen
• A brace or elbow strap to reduce tendon strain
• Physical therapy to stretch and strengthen forearm muscles

If non-invasive treatment (above) does not eliminate symptoms, your doctor may recommend:

• Steroid injections
• Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)

These approaches work for most people within a few weeks to months.

Surgical Treatments

Surgery is rarely needed, but may be recommended if:

• Symptoms last longer than 6 to 12 months despite treatment
• There is significant tendon tearing
• Daily activities are consistently limited by pain

Surgical treatment for golfer’s elbow typically involves removing damaged tissue and reattaching the healthy tendon to the bone. It is often performed using minimally invasive techniques for faster recovery.

What Are the Risks of Golfer’s Elbow Surgery?

While surgery is generally safe, potential risks include:

• Infection
• Nerve irritation or damage
• Stiffness or loss of motion
• Persistent pain
• Re-tearing of the tendon (rare)

Working with a skilled orthopedic surgeon and following your rehab plan reduces the chances of complications.

What Does Recovery from Golfer’s Elbow Surgery Involve?

Post-surgery recovery may include:

• Wearing a splint or brace for a short time
• Gradual return to range-of-motion exercises
• Physical therapy to rebuild strength and prevent reinjury
• Avoiding heavy lifting or repetitive motions for several weeks

Most people can return to normal daily activities within 6–12 weeks.

How Long Does Recovery from Golfer’s Elbow Take?

• Without surgery: Most people improve within 6 to 12 weeks.
• With surgery: Full recovery can take 3 to 6 months, depending on your activity level and overall health.

Early treatment and commitment to rehab are key to a successful recovery.

What Is the Outlook for Golfer’s Elbow?

The outlook for golfer’s elbow is excellent with the right care. Over 90% of patients recover with nonoperative treatment. Surgery, when needed, has high success rates and long-term relief. Strengthening exercises and lifestyle adjustments can prevent it from returning.