Golfer’s Elbow

What is golfer’s elbow?

Golfer’s elbow, also referred to as medial epicondylitis, is a condition of the elbow that results in pain from repetitive overuse. This condition results in swelling and irritation of a tendon that connects forearm muscles to the inside (medial) portion of the elbow. Although pain typically occurs on the inside region of the elbow, closest to the body, it may also move into the forearm and wrist. Dr. Joseph Lamplot, orthopedic elbow specialist, treats patients in Arlington Heights, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Barrington, and the surrounding Northwest Suburbs of Chicago, IL, who have experienced a golfer’s elbow.

Do I have to play golf to have a golfer’s elbow?

No, not at all! Golfer’s elbow gets its name because it is often caused by repetitive movements of the wrist and forearm that occur while playing golf. These types of motions can cause small tears to form in a forearm tendon following frequent, repetitive motions. Golfer’s elbow affects individuals who participate in activities that require frequent, repetitive motions of the wrist and forearm including but not limited to throwing sports such as baseball, racquetball, bowling, weight training, or even activities such as gardening, painting, or using screwdrivers or hammers.

What are the symptoms of golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylitis?

• Pain and tenderness on the inside (medial) portion of the elbow that may or may not move down the forearm
• Worsening of pain with gripping and repetitive lifting of objects, especially when the elbow is fully straight

How is golfer’s elbow diagnosed?

To diagnose golfer’s elbow, Dr. Lamplot will first perform a detailed medical history with the patient including participation in sports or other physical activities. He will evaluate the patient’s concerns and perform a physical examination to determine strength, range of motion, and other factors that may help him to formulate a diagnosis. Additional diagnostic imaging may be required such as X-rays or MRI scan in order to give Dr. Lamplot a closer look at the patient’s injury.

What is done to treat medial epicondylitis or golfer’s elbow?

There are many options to treat a patient’s golfer’s elbow ranging from non-surgical approaches to surgical intervention. Dr. Lamplot strongly prefers non-surgical treatments for this condition when possible. However, some patients may consider surgery depending on the severity of their condition.

Non-surgical treatments:

• Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation (RICE) of the affected elbow
• Pain management with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), which may be either topical (gel) or oral (pills).
• Bracing to minimize movement of the affected tendon (counterforce brace)
• Individually tailored physical therapy regimen

Surgical treatments:

Non-surgical treatments are typically successful to alleviate golfer’s elbow. However, if symptoms remain present after an appropriate course of non-surgical treatment, Dr. Lamplot may recommend surgery to repair the damaged tendon. This will often include removal of scar tissue and reattaching the torn tendon to the bone. After a thorough evaluation, Dr. Lamplot will recommend a treatment plan that will best allow the patient to alleviate their symptoms and return to normal activities.