Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the inside of your elbow. Despite its name, this condition isn’t limited to golfers — it can affect anyone who performs repetitive motions involving gripping, lifting, or wrist flexion.
At Rothman Orthopaedics, our team offers advanced, patient-specific care to relieve your pain and restore function, using both conservative and cutting-edge treatment options.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from overuse or repetitive strain, especially from activities that involve:
- Forceful wrist flexion (bending the wrist downward)
- Gripping or twisting motions (e.g., swinging a golf club, hammering, or typing)
- Poor technique in sports or work-related tasks
It’s common among athletes, tradespeople, and individuals whose hobbies or jobs involve repeated arm use. Microtears develop in the tendons over time, leading to inflammation and pain.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow or difficulty making a fist
- Weakness in the hand or wrist
- Numbness or tingling that radiates into the fingers
- Discomfort that worsens with movement or gripping
If left untreated, symptoms can become chronic and interfere with daily function.
Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment. Our specialists will review your medical history, discuss your symptoms, and perform a physical examination. When needed, we use advanced imaging technologies such as:
- Ultrasound – to detect tendon damage in real time
- MRI – for a detailed view of soft tissue involvement
These tools help us pinpoint the severity of the injury and guide your personalized care plan.
Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments
Most patients respond well to non-operative care. Options may include:
- Rest & Activity Modification
- Physical Therapy – Strengthening and stretching exercises to promote healing and prevent recurrence
- Anti-inflammatory Medications – To reduce pain and swelling
- Bracing – To limit strain during recovery
For patients with persistent symptoms, we offer advanced, minimally invasive therapies, including:
- Needle Tenotomy (e.g., Tenex, TenJet)
Ultrasound-guided removal of damaged tendon tissue with minimal disruption to healthy tissue - Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy
Injections of concentrated platelets from your own blood to stimulate tendon healing - Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)
Acoustic energy waves to improve blood flow and accelerate tissue repair - Stem Cell Therapy
Use of regenerative cells to promote healing (subject to FDA regulations and typically not covered by insurance)
Note: PRP, shockwave, and stem cell therapies may not be covered by insurance. Our team can help you understand your options.
Surgical Options
If conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, surgical intervention may be recommended. Rothman Orthopaedics offers advanced procedures designed for less pain, faster recovery, and improved outcomes:
- Arthroscopic or Micro-Invasive Surgery
Tiny incisions allow precise tendon repair with minimal disruption - PRP- or Stem Cell–Enhanced Surgery
Biological enhancements to support faster healing during and after surgery - Bio-Inductive Implants
Innovative patches that promote natural tissue regeneration during surgical repair
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Post-treatment rehabilitation is critical to restoring strength, flexibility, and function. Our physical therapy team tailors each program to your needs, with a focus on:
- Safe, gradual return to activity
- Elbow, forearm, and wrist strengthening
- Sport-specific or job-specific reconditioning
We also emphasize injury prevention, including ergonomic training and technique modification for athletes, workers, and hobbyists alike.
Why Choose Rothman Orthopaedics?
Rothman Orthopaedics combines world-class expertise with a commitment to innovation in musculoskeletal care. Whether you're an athlete looking to return to your sport or someone just trying to get back to everyday life without pain, we offer solutions that are:
- Evidence-based
- Minimally invasive whenever possible
- Customized to your goals
Schedule an Appointment
If you’re experiencing pain or weakness in your elbow, don’t wait for symptoms to worsen. Schedule a consultation with one of our orthopaedic specialists today and explore the full range of treatment options available for golfer’s elbow.
