Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow affects the inner side of the elbow, where the tendons of the forearm flexor muscles attach. Though less common than tennis elbow, it can be equally painful and persistent.

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What is Golfer's Elbow?

Medial epicondylitis involves degeneration and micro-tearing of the common flexor tendon at its attachment to the medial epicondyle, the bony prominence on the inner side of the elbow. Despite the name, it commonly affects those involved in manual trades, racket sports, throwing sports, or any activity requiring repetitive wrist flexion and forearm rotation.

Diagnosis

Examination findings are characteristic and allow confident diagnosis in most cases. Ultrasound or MRI may be requested to assess the degree of tendon involvement or to exclude other causes of elbow pain.

Symptoms

  • Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow

  • Pain that may radiate into the forearm

  • Pain with wrist flexion against resistance and weakness of grip.

  • Pain with wrist flexion against resistance

Treatment Options

Non-Surgical Treatment

Activity modification and relative rest

Physiotherapy: Eccentric exercise programme and load management

Golfers elbow clasp: to reduce lead through the tendon

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injection: A treatment that uses your body's own blood to help promote healing. Platelets are tiny cells in your blood that play an important role in healing and tissue repair. They contain natural growth factors and proteins that can help reduce inflammation and encourage damaged tissues to heal.

Surgical Treatment: Golfers Elbow Release

For persistent cases that have not responded to non-surgical measures, surgical release and debridement can be performed.