Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Overview

Medial Epicondylitis, commonly known as golfer’s elbow, is a condition caused by inflammation or degeneration of the tendons attached to the inner side of the elbow. These tendons connect the forearm muscles responsible for wrist and finger movements to the medial epicondyle of the upper arm bone.

Despite its name, golfer’s elbow can affect anyone who performs repetitive gripping, lifting, or wrist movements.

At Moolchand Hospital, a leading multi super speciality hospital in Delhi, orthopedic and sports medicine specialists provide advanced diagnosis and treatment for elbow tendon injuries.

What is Golfer’s Elbow?

The elbow joint contains tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the upper arm bone.

In medial epicondylitis:

• The tendons on the inner side of the elbow become irritated or inflamed
  
  

• Repeated stress causes microscopic tears in the tendon fibers
  
  

• Pain and weakness develop in the elbow and forearm
  
  

The condition is considered a type of tendinopathy caused by overuse.

Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen with continued activity.

Common symptoms include:

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
  
  

• Weak grip strength
  
  

• Pain when bending the wrist or gripping objects
  
  

• Stiffness in the elbow joint
  
  

• Tingling sensation that may extend to the fingers
  
  

Pain may worsen during activities such as lifting objects, shaking hands, or using tools.

Causes

Golfer’s elbow develops due to repetitive stress on the forearm muscles and tendons.

Common causes include:

• Repetitive wrist flexion movements
  
  

• Improper sports techniques
  
  

• Repeated gripping or lifting activities
  
  

• Overuse of forearm muscles
  
  

Although often associated with golf, the condition is also common in tennis players, carpenters, plumbers, and office workers.

Risk Factors

Several factors increase the risk of developing medial epicondylitis:

• Repetitive arm movements
  
  

• Poor sports technique
  
  

• Improper equipment use
  
  

• Age between 30 and 60 years
  
  

• Occupations involving repetitive hand work
  
  

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose golfer’s elbow through clinical evaluation and imaging tests.

Physical Examination

Doctors evaluate:

• Location of pain
  
  

• Elbow movement
  
  

• Forearm muscle strength
  
  

Imaging Tests

• X-rays to rule out other elbow conditions
  
  

• Ultrasound or MRI to assess tendon damage
  
  

At Moolchand Hospital Delhi, advanced diagnostic tools help confirm the condition and guide treatment.

Treatment Options

Treatment aims to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore elbow function.

Rest and Activity Modification

Reducing activities that strain the elbow allows the tendon to heal.

Medications

Anti-inflammatory medications may help relieve pain and swelling.

Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy strengthens forearm muscles and improves flexibility.

Elbow Braces

Support braces reduce strain on the injured tendon.

Injection Therapy

Corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections may help in persistent cases.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery may be considered if symptoms persist despite conservative treatment.

Possible Complications

If untreated, golfer’s elbow may lead to:

• Chronic elbow pain
  
  

• Weak grip strength
  
  

• Reduced arm function
  
  

• Persistent tendon damage
  
  

Early treatment helps prevent long-term problems.

Prevention

Preventive measures include:

• Proper warm-up before sports or physical activity
  
  

• Strengthening forearm muscles
  
  

• Using correct sports techniques
  
  

• Taking regular breaks during repetitive activities
  
  

Why Choose Moolchand Hospital

Patients choose Moolchand Hospital, Lajpat Nagar for sports injury treatment because of:

• Experienced orthopedic and sports medicine specialists
  
  

• Advanced diagnostic imaging facilities
  
  

• Expertise in minimally invasive orthopedic procedures
  
  

• Comprehensive physiotherapy and rehabilitation programs
  
  

• Multidisciplinary orthopedic care
  
  

As a leading private hospital in Delhi, Moolchand Hospital provides specialized treatment for elbow tendon injuries.