Golfer's Elbow
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 6, 2025.
Golfer's elbow is an injury of the tendons in your inner elbow. Tendons are strong tissues that connect muscle to bone. Golfer's elbow is caused by overuse of the muscles in your forearm. Any activity that causes you to grasp, twist, or throw an object can cause golfer's elbow. Repeated arm movements or a sudden injury can lead to inflammation and small tears in your tendon. Golfer's elbow is also called medial epicondylitis.
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DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:
Return to the emergency department if:
- You suddenly have no feeling in your arm, hand, or fingers.
- You suddenly cannot move your arm, wrist, hand, or fingers.
- You have severe pain that is getting worse.
- You have a fever along with red or swollen skin that is getting worse.
Call your doctor if:
- Your symptoms do not get better within 2 weeks, even with treatment.
- You have more pain or weakness in your arm, wrist, hand, or fingers.
- You have new numbness or tingling in your arm, hand, or fingers.
- You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.
Medicines:
You may need any of the following:
- Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
- NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
- Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.
Manage golfer's elbow:
Your healthcare provider may give you specific instructions. The following are general guidelines:
- Rest your injured arm and avoid activities that cause pain. Your provider will tell you when it is okay to do your regular activities or sports.
- Go to physical therapy as directed. A physical therapist can teach you exercises to increase strength and decrease pain. The exercises may also help improve your range of motion. The therapist will also show you movements to avoid so the injury can heal.
- Wear your support device as directed. A support device, such as a brace, limits arm movement, decreases pain, and prevents more tendon damage. Your provider will tell you how long to use the brace.
- Apply ice on your elbow for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. Use an ice pack, or put crushed ice in a plastic bag. Cover the bag with a towel before you apply it to your skin. Ice helps prevent tissue damage and decreases swelling and pain.
- Elevate your elbow above the level of your heart as often as you can. This will help decrease swelling and pain. Prop your elbow on pillows or blankets to keep it elevated comfortably.
Follow up with your doctor as directed:
Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.
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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.
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