Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
What is it?
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Typically, an overuse injury to the tendon that attaches forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the inside of the below (medial epicondyle).
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Golfer’s elbow is less common than tennis elbow.
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It is more common in those with type 2 diabetes and those who smoke.
Typical Symptoms/features:
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Pain over the inside of the elbow which may radiate into the forearm.
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Pain on lifting, twisting, wrist flexion and gripping tasks e.g. turning keys, lifting kettle.
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Worse with repetitive actions e.g. carpentry or plumbing.
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Weakness in gripping activities.
Management:
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Activity modification
- When you first start noticing elbow pain, it may help to reduce your activity for a time to allow the pain to settle.
- However, there is strong evidence that says keeping active and slowly returning to your normal levels of activity can actually help the pain to settle quicker.
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Ice or heat.
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Pain relief.
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Physiotherapy including range of movement exercises and a graded strengthening programme.
Do I need imaging?
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Imaging (X-rays or scans) is rarely required to diagnose golfer’s elbow.
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X-rays and scans are most appropriately used after a serious injury.
