Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow is a painful condition caused by inflammation or micro-tearing of the tendons that connect your forearm muscles to the bony bump on the inside of your elbow.

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness along the inner elbow, sometimes radiating down the forearm
• Stiffness and reduced range of motion
• Weakness in your hands, wrists, or grip
• Numbness or tingling sensations extending into the fingers

Causes

Repetitive stress and forceful wrist flexion, gripping, or forearm rotation. Despite the name, it frequently affects non-golfers through activities like throwing sports, weightlifting, and manual labor.

Risk Factors

• Age 40 or older
• Performing repetitive arm or wrist motions for at least two hours daily
• Improper technique in sports or physical work
• Smoking or obesity

Diagnosis

Our specialists perform a comprehensive physical evaluation, assessing pain during resisted wrist flexion, complemented by X-rays or MRI imaging when necessary to rule out other injuries.

Treatment

Most patients recover with conservative care: rest, ice, bracing, targeted physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications or injections. If severe pain persists, advanced minimally invasive surgical options are available.