Golfer's Elbow
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.
What is golfer's elbow?
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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What are the signs and symptoms of golfer's elbow?
- Pain in your inner elbow that may spread to your forearm or wrist
- A tender area in your elbow that gets worse with activity or pressure and better with rest
- Trouble grabbing or pulling an object
- Trouble straightening your elbow
- Red, swollen, or warm skin on the inside of your elbow
How is golfer's elbow diagnosed?
Your healthcare provider will check your elbow for tender spots. You may be asked if you have pain when you move your hand up and down. Your provider may move your thumb, fingers, wrist, or elbow to check for pain or other problems. X-ray or MRI pictures may show tendon damage. Do not enter the MRI room with anything metal. The MRI machine uses a powerful magnet. Metal can cause serious injury from the magnet. Tell the provider if you have any metal in or on your body.
How is golfer's elbow treated?
- 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.
- A steroid injection may help decrease pain and swelling.
- Surgery may be needed if your symptoms do not improve with other treatments.
How can I 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.
When should I seek immediate care?
- 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.
When should I call my doctor?
- 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.
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