Golfer's Elbow Treatment
Treatment for inner elbow pain from overuse.
Golfer's elbow affects the tendons on the inner side of the elbow, caused by repetitive strain in a similar way to tennis elbow but on the opposite side of the joint. It affects a wide range of people beyond golfers, particularly those doing repetitive gripping, throwing, or wrist-flexing activities, and generally responds well to non-surgical treatment.
Types
Acute Golfer's Elbow
Recently developed symptoms that typically respond well to early treatment.
Chronic Golfer's Elbow
Longer-standing symptoms that have not resolved with initial treatment.
Medial Epicondylitis with Ulnar Nerve Irritation
Cases where nearby nerve irritation adds numbness or tingling to the typical pain pattern.
Common Causes
Golfer's elbow develops from repeated strain on the tendons attaching to the inner elbow, most often from activities involving gripping and wrist flexion.
- Repetitive gripping and wrist-flexing movements - golf, throwing sports, and manual work.
- Sudden increase in repetitive activity involving the forearm.
- Poor technique in sport placing extra strain on the inner elbow tendons.
- Repetitive occupational tasks involving forceful gripping.
- Age-related tendon changes increasing susceptibility to strain.
Signs and Symptoms
- Pain on the inner side of the elbow, sometimes radiating into the forearm
- Pain that worsens with gripping or wrist-flexing movements
- Weakness in grip strength
- Stiffness in the elbow, particularly in the morning
- Occasional numbness or tingling if nearby nerves are irritated
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is generally clinical, based on tenderness over the inner elbow and pain reproduced with resisted wrist flexion. Imaging is occasionally used for persistent or unclear cases to assess tendon condition.
Treatment Approach
Treatment mirrors that for tennis elbow - rest from aggravating activity, physiotherapy, bracing, and activity modification, with injections considered for more persistent symptoms. Surgery is uncommon and reserved for cases that do not respond to a sustained course of non-surgical treatment. Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna assesses the response to conservative treatment before considering any further intervention.
Please note: This page is for general information only and does not replace a proper medical evaluation. Every case is different, and the underlying cause of your symptoms may not match what is described here. Please do not use this page to self-diagnose - consult Dr. K. G. Gopalakrishna or another qualified orthopaedic specialist for an accurate diagnosis specific to you.
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Last reviewed: August 2026