Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is an inflammation of the tendons that attach the muscles in the forearm to the inside of the elbow. It is a common condition that affects people who participate in activities that involve repetitive use of the wrist and hand, such as golfing, tennis, and weightlifting.

The symptoms of golfer’s elbow include:

• Pain on the inside of the elbow
• Pain that gets worse with gripping or using the hand
• Weakness in the hand and forearm

If you think you have golfer’s elbow, it is important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment.

The diagnosis of golfer’s elbow is usually made based on the patient’s symptoms and physical examination. The doctor may also order an X-ray or MRI to rule out other possible causes of elbow pain.

The treatment for golfer’s elbow includes:

• Rest and Activity Modification: The first step in managing golfer’s elbow is to give the affected arm adequate rest. Avoid activities that worsen the pain, especially those that involve gripping, lifting, or repetitive wrist movements. Resting the injured arm allows the damaged tendons to heal and reduces further strain.
• Ice and Compression: Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation. Use an ice pack wrapped in a thin cloth and apply it to the inner elbow for 15-20 minutes several times a day. Compression bandages or braces can also provide support and reduce strain on the tendons.
• Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program to strengthen the forearm muscles and improve flexibility. These exercises can help alleviate pain and prevent future episodes of golfer’s elbow. Additionally, manual therapy techniques may be used to reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow to the affected area.
• Medications: Your healthcare provider may recommend non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. These medications can be helpful in managing symptoms, especially during the early stages of treatment.
• Elbow Bracing: Using an elbow brace or splint can provide support to the affected area and reduce strain on the tendons. Your healthcare provider may suggest the appropriate type of brace and provide guidance on its usage.
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves drawing a small amount of your blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the PRP into the affected area. PRP therapy can stimulate tissue repair and reduce pain in some individuals with golfer’s elbow.
• Corticosteroid Injections: In cases of severe pain and inflammation, corticosteroid injections may be considered. These injections can provide temporary relief but are typically reserved for cases that do not respond to other treatments.
• Surgery: Surgery is rarely needed for golfer’s elbow and is usually reserved for severe cases that do not improve with conservative treatments. Surgical options may include tendon repair or release procedures.

In most cases, golfer’s elbow will heal on its own within a few weeks. However, it may take several months for the pain to completely go away.

Here are some tips to help prevent golfer’s elbow:

• Warm up properly before exercising.
• Stretch your forearm muscles regularly.
• Use proper technique when participating in activities that involve repetitive use of the wrist and hand.
• Take breaks when you feel pain.

If you have questions about golfers elbow, we encourage you to make an appointment to see Dr Sara Safari at Warrandyte Road Clinic to get a diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Sara Safari

Sports and Musculoskeletal Doctor

Dr Sara Safari is an experienced sports and musculoskeletal doctor with extensive experience in helping athletes and active individuals of all ages and levels get back to the activities they love.

She has previously held roles as a sports doctor with the AFL Academy, the Sydney Swans, Melbourne City FC and Eastern Ranges Football Club. In addition to her practice at Warrandyte Road Clinic, she also consults as a sports and musculoskeletal physician at Knox Orthopaedic Group and assists in orthopaedic surgeries on a regular basis at various hospitals around Melbourne. She is experienced at room ultrasound for rapid diagnosis and is an expert in the field of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy for treatment of musculoskeletal conditions.

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