What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the inside of the elbow. It commonly develops from repetitive arm, wrist, or gripping motions and can affect athletes, workers, and active individuals alike.
Golfer’s elbow is a type of tendonitis that affects the tendons attaching to the medial epicondyle—the bony bump on the inside of your elbow. These tendons help control wrist and finger movement. Overuse or repeated stress can cause small tears in the tendon, leading to pain and reduced function.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, our fellowship-trained elbow specialists provide personalized treatment plans to relieve pain, restore strength, and help you return to daily activities.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
- Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow joint
- Weakness in the hands or wrists
- Pain that worsens with gripping, lifting, or twisting motions
- Tingling or numbness that may extend into the forearm
Causes & Risk Factors
Golfer’s elbow is typically caused by repetitive stress or overuse. You don’t have to play golf to develop this condition.
- Repetitive wrist flexion or gripping motions
- Improper sports technique, including golf, baseball, or tennis
- Occupational strain from construction, plumbing, assembly work, or other repetitive tasks
- Frequent heavy lifting
- Poor conditioning or muscle imbalance
Diagnosis
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, diagnosis begins with a thorough evaluation by a fellowship-trained elbow specialist. This may include:
- Physical examination of the elbow and forearm
- Assessment of strength and range of motion
- Review of your symptoms, activity level, work demands, and sports history
- Imaging such as X-rays or MRI, when needed
Our goal is to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions such as nerve compression, arthritis, or ligament injuries.
Treatment Options for Golfer’s Elbow
Non-Surgical Treatment
Most cases of golfer’s elbow can be treated without surgery. Your customized plan may include:
- Activity modification and rest
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Physical therapy to strengthen and stretch the forearm muscles
- Bracing or support straps
- Corticosteroid injections to reduce inflammation
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections to support tissue healing
Surgical Treatment
If symptoms persist despite conservative care, surgery may be recommended. Surgical options focus on removing damaged tissue and repairing the tendon to restore function. Our surgeons use advanced techniques to minimize downtime and support a safe recovery.
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery time depends on the severity of the condition and the treatment approach.
- Mild cases may improve within weeks
- Moderate cases may take several months with therapy
- Surgical recovery typically includes structured rehabilitation
Our team works closely with you to support a safe and effective return to work, sports, and daily activities.
Why Choose Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists?
Local Care, Close to Home
We proudly serve patients throughout Delaware and nearby communities, including Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford. Whether your elbow pain is mild or more advanced, our team is here to help you get back to living with less pain and better function.
At Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists, your care is led by fellowship-trained physicians who focus exclusively on their area of expertise. This specialized approach allows for more accurate diagnoses and more personalized treatment recommendations.
- Dedicated elbow and upper extremity specialists
- Comprehensive non-surgical and surgical treatment options
- Coordinated care across multiple orthopedic specialties
- Convenient locations in Wilmington, Newark, Middletown, Stanton, North Wilmington, and Chadds Ford
Schedule an Appointment
Schedule an appointment with Delaware Orthopaedic Specialists today to receive expert diagnosis and treatment for golfer’s elbow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to heal golfer’s elbow?
Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory treatments are typically the fastest ways to reduce symptoms. Early treatment often leads to quicker recovery.
Can golfer’s elbow go away on its own?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but persistent symptoms usually require guided treatment to fully heal and reduce the risk of recurrence.
How is golfer’s elbow different from tennis elbow?
Golfer’s elbow affects the inside of the elbow, while tennis elbow affects the outside. Both are caused by overuse but involve different tendon groups.
When should I see a specialist?
If your elbow pain lasts more than a few weeks, worsens, or interferes with work, sports, or daily activities, it is best to seek evaluation from a specialist.