Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Forearm tendons attach near the inner elbow and can become irritated by repeated loading. This location differs from tennis elbow, which causes pain on the outer side.

Related reading: Shoulder tendon pain and rehabilitation.

Inner-elbow tenderness can spread into the forearm, with painful handshakes, lifting or weaker grip. Ring- or little-finger numbness may suggest associated ulnar nerve involvement.

Repeated gripping, wrist bending, forearm rotation or sudden increases in workload can overload the tendons. Tool use and sports technique may contribute.

Repetitive manual work, racket sports, throwing, weight training and unsuitable technique increase risk. Activity type alone does not establish the diagnosis.

Examination assesses tenderness, resisted wrist movement, grip and nerve function. Imaging is reserved for injury, atypical findings or persistent symptoms rather than every straightforward case.

Load adjustment, progressive rehabilitation and suitable pain relief usually come first; selected braces may help. Injections have uncertain benefits and risks, and surgery is uncommon after adequate conservative care.

Pain may become persistent and limit work or sport. Associated nerve symptoms need separate assessment. Recovery can take months, but surgery is usually unnecessary.

Increase work and training loads gradually, improve gripping technique and use appropriate equipment and breaks. Return to activity depends on function and tolerance rather than a universal deadline.