Golfer's Elbow
Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow, where the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. Despite the name, it affects far more people than just golfers — it's common in anyone who repeatedly grips, twists, or flexes the wrist and forearm.
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Symptoms
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
- Pain that may radiate down the forearm
- Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning
- Weakness in the hands and wrists
- Numbness or tingling into the ring and little fingers
- Pain that worsens with gripping, squeezing, or twisting motions
When to See a Doctor
See a specialist if elbow pain persists for more than 2-3 weeks, interferes with daily activities, or does not improve with rest and over-the-counter pain medication.
Treatment Options
Rest and activity modification
Reducing or avoiding the activities that aggravate symptoms. Technique corrections for sports or occupational tasks.
Physical therapy
Eccentric forearm strengthening exercises, stretching, and manual therapy. The most effective long-term treatment.
Bracing
A counterforce brace worn just below the elbow reduces stress on the tendon attachment site during activity.
Corticosteroid injection
Injection at the medial epicondyle to reduce pain and inflammation. Provides short-term relief for physical therapy.
Surgery (rare)
Surgical debridement of degenerated tendon tissue for cases that fail 6-12 months of conservative treatment.
Recovery Timeline
Most cases resolve in 3-6 months with conservative treatment. Chronic cases may take 6-18 months. Surgery recovery takes 3-6 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between golfer's elbow and tennis elbow?
Golfer's elbow affects the inner (medial) side of the elbow and involves the flexor tendons. Tennis elbow affects the outer (lateral) side and involves the extensor tendons. Both involve tendon overuse at the elbow but at different attachment points.
Can golfer's elbow heal without treatment?
Mild cases may resolve with rest alone over several months. However, without addressing the underlying muscle weakness and movement patterns, symptoms often recur. Physical therapy is recommended to ensure full recovery and prevent recurrence.
What type of doctor treats golfer's elbow?
Orthopaedic surgeons specializing in sports medicine or upper extremity conditions are the primary specialists. Physical therapists play a central role in rehabilitation.
Related Specialty
Sports Med Specialists →Golfer's Elbow by State
Related Conditions
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.