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Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylitis is characterised by pain at the point where the forearm tendons connect to the bony bump on the inner elbow. This pain can also radiate to the forearm and wrist.

Golfer’s elbow does not only affect golfers. It can also develop in tennis players and individuals who frequently use their wrists or grip objects tightly.

Symptoms

Golfer’s elbow presents with several symptoms including:

  • Pain and tenderness: Discomfort occurs on the inner section of the elbow, and may spread along the forearm. Certain movements can also make the pain worse.
  • Stiffness: The elbow can stiffen; hence, making a fist can be painful.
  • Weakness: Reduced strength in the hands and wrists may occur.
  • Numbness or tingling: These feelings may extend into the ring and little fingers.

The pain associated with this condition may develop gradually or appear suddenly. It may also get worse with specific movements like swinging a golf club.

Causes

Golfer’s elbow results from damage to the tendons and muscles controlling wrist and finger movements. Usually, this damage is caused by excessive or repetitive stress, particularly from forceful wrist or finger motions. Factors such as improper throwing, lifting, or hitting, as well as inadequate warmup or improper conditioning, may also trigger the condition.

Apart from golf, several activities and jobs that can cause golfer’s elbow are:

  • Racket sports: Poor technique, especially in tennis backhand strokes, excessive topspin or using a small-sized or heavy racket can strain the tendon.
  • Throwing sports: Inappropriate pitching mechanics in baseball or softball, as well as activities like archery, football, and javelin throwing, can contribute to the condition.
  • Weight training: Incorrect lifting techniques like wrists curling during bicep workouts are likely to overload muscles and tendons in the elbow.
  • Repetitive and forceful occupational movements: Jobs that involve forceful, repetitive motions—such as plumbing, construction, and carpentry—can increase the risk.

Golfer’s elbow usually develops from activities performed for more than one hour daily over multiple days.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of a golfer’s elbow, including:

  • Age (40 years and above)
  • Engaging in activities that involve repetitive motions for 2 hours per day.
  • Smoking
  • Obesity

Diagnosis

Healthcare providers diagnose a golfer’s elbow through a review of medical history and a physical examination. Pressure may be applied to the affected area to assess pain and stiffness. You may also need to move your elbow, wrist, and fingers in different ways.

At times, an X-ray may be used to rule out other potential reasons for elbow pain, like fractures or arthritis. More advanced imaging, like an MRI, is hardly needed but may be considered for a more detailed evaluation.

Treatment Options

The first step in golfer’s elbow treatment is avoiding activities that trigger pain. Applying ice can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.

Other options include:

Medication:

Over-the-counter pain relievers that can help manage symptoms include:

  • Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB)
  • Naproxen sodium (Aleve)
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Corticosteroid shots are rarely used because of their lack of long-term effectiveness. A newer treatment, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy, involves injecting concentrated platelets and anti-inflammatory factors from the patient’s blood into the affected area.

Therapy:

The following strategies may aid recovery:

  • Rest: Pause golf or other repeated activities until the pain subsides. Resuming activity too soon may exacerbate the condition.
  • Ice therapy: Apply a cold pack for 15–20 minutes, 3 to 4 times daily for several days. For added relief, gently massage the internal elbow with ice for at least 5 minutes, two to three times each day. Ensure that the ice packs are wrapped in a thin cloth for skin protection.
  • Bracing: Wearing a counterforce brace can assist in reducing strain on the tendons and muscles.
  • Stretching and strengthening: The provider may recommend specific exercises in order to strengthen and stretch the affected area gradually. Progressive tendon loading exercises have been proven to be particularly effective. Physical or occupational therapy may also be beneficial.

Once the pain subsides, slowly ease back into your normal activities. Begin by practising the arm motions involved in your sport or daily tasks. If you play golf or tennis, consider working with an instructor to evaluate your technique and make any necessary adjustments so as to prevent future strain.

Surgery:

Surgery is rarely needed, but it may be considered if symptoms persist for 6 to 12 months, even with treatment. A minimally invasive TENEX (ultrasonic tenotomy) procedure uses ultrasound guidance to remove scar tissue from the affected tendon. However, further research is needed on its long-term effectiveness.

Recovery Outlook

Most people improve with rest, ice, and pain relievers, but recovery time varies. Based on the severity, pain may last for months or even years despite proper treatment. In some cases, a golfer’s elbow can become a chronic condition or return after initial improvement.

Prevention of Golfer’s Elbow

Taking these proactive steps can help reduce the risk of developing golfer’s elbow:

  • Strengthening forearm muscles – Engage in exercises with light weights or consider squeezing a tennis ball, as these enable the muscles to absorb physical stress more effectively.
  • Stretching before activity – Warm up with light activities, such as walking or jogging, before stretching gently to prepare your muscles.
  • Improving Technique – Work with an instructor to refine your form in sports or activities so as to avoid putting too much strain on your elbow.
  • Using proper equipment – Upgrade to lighter graphite golf clubs or ensure your tennis racket has the right grip size and weight to avoid unnecessary stress on your elbow.
  • Practising proper lifting techniques – Always ensure that your wrist remains rigid and stable when lifting objects, including free weights in order to minimise elbow strain.
  • Listening to your body – Do not overwork your elbow and rest at the onset of pain in order to avoid worsening the condition.

Bottom Line

Golfer’s elbow pain shouldn’t keep you from enjoying your favourite activities or performing daily tasks. Proper treatment and care can help relieve discomfort, regain strength, and prevent future injuries.

Schedule an appointment with us today for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.