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Read MoreGolfer’s elbow can cause pain when gripping, lifting or even shaking hands, due to discomfort on the inside of the elbow. With the right treatment, most people regain strength, ease stiffness and return to daily activities and sports without lasting problems.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that causes pain, tenderness and stiffness on the inside of the elbow. It happens when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the medial epicondyle of the humerus (the bony bump on the inside of the elbow) become irritated or damaged. Despite its name, golfer’s elbow affects many people beyond athletes, including those who perform repetitive gripping, lifting or throwing motions on a regular basis.
The condition is commonly caused by activities that involve repeated wrist flexion or forearm rotation, such as golfing, throwing sports, weightlifting or occupational tasks like carpentry or typing. Risk factors include repetitive stress without adequate rest, poor technique or weak forearm muscles.
What Are the Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow symptoms usually develop gradually, though pain may appear suddenly after intense activity. Symptoms may include:
- Pain and tenderness in the inner elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning or after activity
- Weak grip strength or difficulty holding objects
- Numbness or tingling that may radiate into the ring and little fingers
- Pain that worsens with gripping, throwing or flexing the wrist
How Is Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosed?
To diagnose an ACL injury, your doctor will review how the injury occurred and your symptoms, then perform exams to assess knee stability. X-rays can rule out bone injuries, while an MRI provides detailed images to confirm ligament tears. After confirming the diagnosis, your doctor will recommend treatment based on your activity and goals.
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Golfer’s Elbow Treatment Options
Rest and Activity Modification
Taking a break from repetitive gripping, lifting or throwing activities allows the tendon to heal. Adjusting technique or equipment can also prevent reinjury.
Ice and Medications
Applying ice to the inner elbow and using anti-inflammatory medications can help reduce swelling, tenderness and pain during flare-ups.
Bracing or Support
Wearing an elbow brace for medial epicondylitis helps reduce strain on the tendon by redistributing pressure during activity. Bracing can also provide comfort while the tendon heals.
Physical and Occupational Therapy
Stretching and strengthening exercises for golfer’s elbow can improve flexibility, restore grip strength and promote healing. Therapists may also guide activity retraining to reduce stress on the elbow.
Injections
Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may be considered for persistent symptoms to reduce inflammation or stimulate tendon healing.
Our Approach to Golfer’s Elbow Treatment
At Inspira, we understand that elbow pain can limit more than just sports—it can affect your work, hobbies and everyday activities. Our team of rehabilitation specialists and sports medicine providers takes a patient-centered approach, beginning with a careful evaluation of your symptoms, activity level and goals. From there, we create a personalized plan that may include bracing, therapy and targeted exercises for golfer’s elbow designed to restore flexibility and strength.
Our therapists and physicians use evidence-based techniques to alleviate pain, enhance grip strength and restore your normal range of motion. For athletes and active adults, we focus on safe return-to-play strategies, while also helping non-athletes regain comfort in daily tasks. With coordinated care across our network, you’ll receive the right combination of therapies, support and education to manage your symptoms and prevent recurrence.
