Golfer's Elbow

Golfer’s elbow can develop in varying degrees of severity:

• Acute Golfer’s Elbow – Sudden onset due to overexertion or an injury. 

• Chronic Golfer’s Elbow – Develops gradually from repetitive stress, leading to persistent pain. 

• Golfer’s Elbow with Nerve Involvement – When inflammation compresses the ulnar nerve, causing tingling or numbness in the hand.

Golfer’s elbow results from repetitive strain on the tendons in the forearm. Common causes include:

• Overuse & Repetitive Motion – Excessive gripping, wrist flexion, or swinging motions. 

• Sports Activities – Golf, tennis, baseball, and weightlifting increase the risk. 

• Improper Technique – Poor form in sports or activities can strain the elbow tendons. 

• Heavy Lifting or Gripping – Common in jobs that require frequent manual labor. 

• Lack of Conditioning – Weak forearm muscles may lead to tendon strain.

Golfer’s elbow symptoms usually develop gradually but can worsen with activity. Doctors perform physical exams, ultrasound, or MRI scans to confirm the golfer’s elbow and rule out other conditions.

• Inner elbow pain – Worsens with gripping or wrist movement. 

• Stiffness & tenderness – Soreness when bending the wrist or making a fist. 

• Weak grip strength – Difficulty holding objects. 

• Tingling or numbness – Radiating discomfort into the fingers. 

• Swelling & inflammation – Tenderness along the forearm.

Treatment focuses on relieving pain, reducing inflammation, and strengthening the elbow tendons. Treatment options may include:

• Rest & Activity Modification – Avoiding repetitive motions that worsen symptoms. 

• Ice Therapy – Reducing inflammation and pain. 

• Physical Therapy – Strengthening and stretching exercises for the forearm. 

• Medications – NSAIDs for pain relief. 

• Corticosteroid Injections – Reduces inflammation in severe cases. 

• Bracing or Support – Elbow straps to reduce stress on the tendons.