What Is Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)?

Golfer’s elbow involves the tendons and muscles that control wrist flexion and finger gripping, commonly referred to as the common flexor tendons. Repetitive use can create small areas of tendon damage over time, including microscopic tears, leading to pain along the inner elbow, especially during gripping or lifting.

Golfer’s elbow is like tennis elbow, but the pain location is different:

• Golfer’s elbow affects the inside of the elbow (medial side).
• Tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow (lateral side).

Additional symptoms may include weakness, numbness, or tingling in the affected arm.

Why Is It Called Golfer’s Elbow?

The condition is called golfer’s elbow because it is commonly seen in golfers, particularly those who use improper technique or equipment. The medical term, medial epicondylitis, refers to irritation or inflammation of the tendons attached to the medial epicondyle. While the name highlights its prevalence among golfers, this condition can also develop in people who do not play golf, including individuals who perform repetitive wrist or elbow motions for work or recreation. It is closely related to tennis elbow, which affects the outer portion of the elbow. Both conditions involve overuse of the forearm muscles, but golfer’s elbow specifically affects the inner elbow.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms of golfer’s elbow typically develop gradually and may include:

• Aching pain or burning on the inner part of the elbow that may radiate down the forearm
• Tenderness to touch on the inside of the elbow
• Weakened grip strength
• Elbow stiffness that may also affect the wrist or hand, making it harder to make a fist
• Tingling or numbness radiating into the ring and pinky fingers if nearby nerves become irritated

What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow is most often caused by overuse. It may result from a single forceful motion or repetitive stress over time. Common contributors include:

• Sports and fitness activities involving repetitive gripping or wrist flexion, including golf and weight training
• Throwing activities and repetitive arm motions
• Work or hobbies involving hand tools, lifting, pulling, or frequent wrist and forearm use

Patient-related risk factors such as prior injuries, occupational demands, and repetitive movements can increase the likelihood of developing medial epicondylitis or influence recovery.

How Is Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosed?

Your provider will begin with a medical history review and physical examination, including palpation of the inner elbow and motion testing to determine which movements reproduce pain. If symptoms include numbness or tingling, evaluation of possible ulnar nerve involvement may be performed. Imaging studies may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis or rule out other conditions that cause medial elbow pain. Diagnostic testing may include X-ray, MRI, or other studies based on exam findings.

Non-Surgical Treatment Options

Most patients improve with conservative treatment. Your provider may recommend:

• Activity modification and rest to reduce repetitive stress on the tendon
• Ice and compression to help manage pain and inflammation
• Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, as appropriate
• Bracing, including a counterforce brace or wrist splint, to reduce strain during activity
• Stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm, performed independently or through physical therapy
• Technique changes or ergonomic adjustments for sports, work, or exercise

In some cases, additional treatments such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy may be considered. Corticosteroid injections may provide temporary pain relief, and your provider will discuss their potential benefits and limitations based on your individual condition.

When Surgery May Be Considered

Surgery is not commonly required for golfer’s elbow and is generally considered only after an extended period of consistent nonsurgical treatment has failed to provide relief. Certain health factors, such as diabetes or smoking, may influence healing and treatment decisions. Surgical treatment typically focuses on removing damaged tendon tissue and repairing healthy tissue to restore function. Your orthopedic specialist will review potential risks and benefits to determine whether surgery is appropriate.

Prevention Tips

You may be able to reduce the risk of golfer’s elbow by:

• Warming up before sports or repetitive activities
• Stretching and strengthening forearm muscles regularly
• Using proper form and technique and ensuring equipment is appropriately sized
• Avoiding sudden increases in activity intensity or volume
• Taking regular breaks during repetitive tasks
• Keeping wrists stable during lifting and training movements

When Should You See a Doctor?

Persistent elbow pain should be evaluated, especially when it interferes with daily activities. Consider scheduling an appointment if you experience:

• Pain lasting several weeks despite rest and over-the-counter medication
• Swelling around the elbow joint
• Difficulty bending or straightening the arm
• Numbness or tingling in the forearm, hand, or fingers
• Weak grip strength affecting work, sports, or daily tasks