Golfer’s Elbow
(medial epicondylitis)
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is a type of tendinitis that occurs when the tendons of your elbow are overloaded, caused by repetitive motion. Pain can be felt on the inside of your elbow, where the tendons in the arm attach to a bony bump. Much like tennis elbow, this condition is not limited to golfers. Anyone who repeatedly use their wrist or clench their fingers can develop golfer’s elbow.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow occurs when the muscles and tendons that control the wrist and fingers have been damaged.
Common Causes of Golfer's Elbow:
- Racquet sports: Improper backhand technique, overuse of a topspin and a racquet that is too small or too heavy
- Throwing Sports: Improper pitching technique in baseball or softball, football, archery, javelin throwing
- Occupational hazards where forceful, repetitive wrist movements occur.
- Improper lifting, hitting, and throwing
- Forceful wrist and finger motions
- Age 40 or older
Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms
If you are suffering from golfer’s elbow, you may experience the following symptoms:
- Pain and tenderness on the inside of your elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow and pain when making a fist
- Weakness in your hands and wrist
- Numbness or tingling radiating into the ring and little fingers
Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosis
Our elbow specialists can diagnose whether your elbow pain is caused by golfer’s elbow. Your doctor will examine your elbow and apply pressure to the affected area or ask you to move your wrist or fingers in various ways. To rule out other issues, an X-ray or MRI may be performed.
Golfer's Elbow Treatment
Our elbow specialists can determine the best course of treatment for your Golfer’s Elbow which may include the following:
- Rest
- Ice
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Wearing a brace
- Physical Therapy
- Surgery, if necessary