What is golfer's elbow?

Golfer's elbow is pain or soreness in the inner part of the elbow from movement of muscles and tendons in the arm. But it isn't just a problem with the elbow. It also involves the wrist. When the wrist moves, it affects the tendons that attach to the elbow.

What causes it?

Golfer's elbow is an overuse injury. These kinds of injuries are caused by putting too much stress on your muscles, joints, or other tissues without allowing them to recover. Golfer’s elbow can occur in people who do activities or have jobs that involve repetitive gripping, wrist movements, or forearm use.

What are the symptoms?

Golfer's elbow causes pain on the inside of your elbow. Your elbow may feel stiff, and it may hurt when you make a fist. Some people with golfer's elbow feel weakness and tingling in the arm and fingers. These symptoms can happen slowly or quickly. The pain may get worse when you swing a racket or golf club, squeeze a ball, shake hands with someone, turn a doorknob, lift weights, or flex your wrist.

How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor may ask about your health. They'll then examine you by pressing on your arm. They may also move your hand and wrist in certain ways to see if that causes pain. These tests will show the doctor if your pain is in your elbow and where in the elbow it is.

How is golfer's elbow treated?

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and allow the tendon in the elbow to heal.

• Treatment usually starts with rest, using ice and anti-inflammatory medicines, and trying a physical therapy and exercise program (rehab). Many people get better using these treatments.
• If a few weeks of rest and rehab have not relieved pain, some people get cortisone (steroid) shots. These are shots of medicine into the painful area to reduce swelling. A steroid shot may help relieve pain for a short time.
• If other treatments don't work and you are not getting better, surgery might be an option.

How can you prevent it?

Golfer’s elbow may be prevented or the risk may be lowered. Here's how:

• If your work involves repeated gripping, lifting, or wrist movements, take regular breaks and change tasks when possible.
• Increase activity levels slowly and avoid suddenly doing more than your body is used to.
• If your elbow hurts after an activity, use ice if it helps. Rest your elbow and wrist. Don't do activities that make the pain worse. Wait until your elbow and wrist feel better.
• Learn the best techniques for your work or sport. A physical or occupational therapist can help you.