Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow is similar to tennis elbow in that both affect the elbow and both are forms of tendinitis. However, golfer’s elbow occurs on the inside rather than the outside of the elbow. Contrary to what its name implies, golfer’s elbow—also known as medial epicondylitis—isn’t limited to golfers. People who repeatedly use their wrists and clench their fingers or repetitively flex, grip, or swing can develop the condition via pulls or tiny tears in the tendons or strained forearm muscles. Golfer’s elbow is characterized by inflammation, tenderness, stiffness, numbness, tingling, weakness, and/or pain in the inner elbow, specifically the bony bump, and possibly the forearm and wrist. Rest, ice, compression, and elevation are the recommended initial treatments for golfer’s elbow. If the pain doesn’t subside or if the pain is associated with a fever or you cannot bend your elbow, your elbow looks deformed, or there is extreme pain, bruising, and/or swelling, you should seek medical attention. A physical therapist can evaluate the seriousness of the injury and develop a treatment plan for regaining motion and strength in the affected arm. In some cases, a physical therapist or doctor might request an X-ray to rule out arthritis or bone fracture.