Elbow Conditions

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s Elbow: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the inner side of the elbow. It develops when the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the inside of the elbow become irritated or degenerate due to repetitive use or excessive strain.

Although commonly associated with golf, golfer’s elbow can affect anyone who performs repetitive gripping, lifting, or wrist-flexion activities. It frequently occurs in manual workers, tradespeople, office workers, and recreational athletes.

Golfer’s elbow can interfere with everyday activities such as gripping objects, lifting items, typing, or performing sporting movements.

What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendon attaching the wrist flexor muscles to the inner elbow becomes overloaded. These muscles are responsible for bending the wrist and assisting with gripping movements. Repetitive stress may cause small, microscopic tears within the tendon. Over time, the tendon may become weakened and degenerative rather than inflamed, which explains why symptoms often develop gradually and may persist without treatment.

Common contributing factors include:

Repetitive gripping or lifting activities
Sporting activities involving repeated wrist flexion or throwing
Manual labour or repetitive occupational movements
Sudden increase in sporting or training intensity
Poor technique or equipment setup during sport
Age-related tendon changes

In many cases, symptoms develop gradually without a single identifiable injury.

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

Symptoms of golfer’s elbow may vary in severity and typically develop progressively.

Common symptoms include:

Pain or tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
Pain that may radiate down the forearm toward the wrist
Weak grip strength
Pain when lifting objects or gripping tools
Discomfort with wrist bending or forearm rotation
Stiffness or reduced elbow movement in some cases

Pain is often aggravated by activities that involve gripping, lifting, or twisting movements of the forearm.

How Golfer’s Elbow Is Diagnosed

Diagnosis is usually based on a clinical assessment involving a detailed history and physical examination. Specific movements that stress the flexor tendons are used to help confirm the diagnosis. Imaging may be recommended when symptoms persist or when alternative diagnoses are suspected. Imaging options may include:

These investigations help guide treatment decisions and rule out other causes of elbow pain.

Ultrasound to assess tendon structure

MRI to evaluate tendon degeneration or partial tearing

X-rays if arthritis or bone-related conditions are being considered

Non-Surgical Treatment Options for Golfer’s Elbow

Most cases of golfer’s elbow improve with non-operative treatment. The primary goal is to reduce tendon strain, promote healing, and restore forearm strength and function.

Non-surgical treatment options may include:

Activity modification to reduce repetitive strain
Physiotherapy focusing on tendon loading programs and strengthening exercises
Ergonomic and technique assessment for sport or work activities
Anti-inflammatory medications where appropriate
Bracing or counterforce straps to reduce tendon load
Corticosteroid injections in selected cases for short-term symptom relief
Biologic injections such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in selected patients

Tendon recovery can take time, and symptoms often improve gradually over several months.

When Golfer’s Elbow Surgery May Be Considered

Surgical treatment may be considered when symptoms persist despite appropriate non-operative management and significantly affect daily activities or work capacity.

Golfer’s Elbow Release Surgery (Medial Epicondylitis Surgery)

Surgery aims to remove damaged tendon tissue and encourage tendon healing.

The procedure may involve:

Removal of degenerated tendon tissue
Repair or reattachment of healthy tendon fibres
Release of tight tendon structures contributing to overload

Depending on the severity and pattern of tendon injury, surgery may be performed using minimally invasive or open techniques.

Dr Richard Dallalana will discuss the most appropriate surgical approach based on your symptoms, imaging findings, and functional goals.

Recovery and Rehabilitation After Golfer’s Elbow Treatments

Recovery depends on symptom severity and whether surgery is required.

Rehabilitation typically includes:

Gradual return to arm movement and daily activities
Progressive strengthening of forearm and wrist muscles
Technique and ergonomic modifications
Staged return to sport or manual work

Recovery following non-surgical treatment may take several months. Recovery after surgery typically involves structured rehabilitation and gradual return to full activity over several months.

Choosing the Right Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow

The most appropriate treatment approach depends on several factors, including:

Dr Richard Dallalana provides comprehensive assessment of golfer’s elbow to determine the most suitable treatment strategy for each patient.

When to Seek Specialist Assessment for Inner Elbow Pain

You may benefit from specialist review if elbow pain:

Persists despite rest or physiotherapy
Interferes with work, sport, or daily activities
Causes significant weakness or reduced grip strength
Continues to worsen over time
Limits your ability to perform repetitive arm tasks

Early assessment can help confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate management.

If you’re experiencing ongoing pain, stiffness, or reduced movement that is affecting your daily activities or quality of life, a thorough orthopaedic assessment can help determine the cause and guide the most appropriate treatment options for your situation.