Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, causes pain along the inner side of the elbow where the forearm tendons attach to the bone. Despite its name, this condition doesn’t only affect golfers and is common in anyone who performs repetitive arm, wrist, or gripping motions, including manual workers, racket sport players, and even office workers.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to the inner part of your elbow become irritated or damaged. This often results from repeated stress or, less commonly, a sudden strain.
Common contributing factors include:
Repetitive gripping or twisting movements: Activities like tennis, baseball, weightlifting, or frequent use of hand tools can place repeated strain on the tendons.
Poor technique in sports or exercise: Incorrect form during a golf swing, tennis stroke, or strength training can overload the elbow.
Sudden increase in activity: Starting a new exercise routine or increasing intensity without proper conditioning may trigger symptoms.
Age-related changes in the tendons: Tendons naturally become less resilient with age, making individuals over 40 more prone to injury.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Symptoms usually develop gradually and may worsen with continued use of the arm.
Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow: Discomfort is felt at the bony area where the forearm tendons attach.
Pain spreading down the forearm: Aching may extend toward the wrist during gripping or twisting movements.
Weakness in the hand and wrist: You may have trouble holding objects or performing tasks that require grip strength.
Stiffness in the elbow: The joint may feel tight, especially in the morning or after rest.
Treatment Options for Golfer’s Elbow
Most cases of golfer’s elbow improve with non-surgical treatment. These approaches help reduce pain, support tendon healing, and restore function. More advanced options may be considered when symptoms persist despite consistent care.
Conservative Management
Initial treatment for golfer’s elbow focuses on relieving strain and supporting tendon healing. This may include rest, activity modification, ice therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy to improve flexibility and strength.
Non-Surgical Treatments
- Corticosteroid injections: These can provide temporary pain relief by reducing local inflammation.
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy: Injecting concentrated components from your own blood may help stimulate tissue repair.
- Shock wave therapy: High-energy sound waves are used to encourage healing in the tendon.
- Dry needling or acupuncture: Inserting fine needles into specific points can help reduce muscle tension and pain.
Surgical Treatments
- Tendon debridement: The surgeon removes the damaged or degenerated portion of the tendon to reduce pain and allow healthy tissue to heal.
- Tendon repair: The remaining healthy tendon is reattached securely to the bone using small anchors or sutures.
- Minimally invasive options: In select cases, arthroscopic (keyhole) surgery may be used to reduce recovery time and scarring.
When Surgical Treatment May Be Needed
Surgery for golfer’s elbow is typically considered when symptoms persist despite 6 to 12 months of consistent non-surgical treatment. This may include ongoing pain that interferes with daily activities such as work, sleep, or exercise, as well as significant weakness that limits your ability to grip, lift, or carry objects.
Surgery may also be recommended when physiotherapy, medications, and other treatments have failed to provide lasting relief, or in cases where there is a complete tendon tear or severe tendon degeneration that cannot heal on its own.
Conclusion
Treatment for golfer’s elbow should be guided by symptom severity and response to care. While most cases improve with rest and rehabilitation, persistent pain may require further evaluation.
If elbow discomfort lasts beyond a few weeks or interferes with your daily activities, consider consulting a hand and orthopaedic specialist for appropriate management.
