Medial epicondylitis, or golfer’s elbow, is soreness or pain on the inside (medial) side of the upper arm near the elbow. This injury is not limited to golfers as it may occur in tennis players, throwers, construction workers and others that repeatedly use their wrists or clench their fingers. With golfer’s elbow, the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the inside bone at your elbow are inflamed. The forearm muscles and tendons become irritated from repetitive movements
Symptoms include elbow pain that gradually worsens, pain that may radiate down the arm, elbow stiffness, and/or a weak grasp. The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Most cases of golfer’s elbow can be treated non-surgically. Rest will allow your arm to heal and not put additional stress on the torn tendon. Additionally, icing and anti-inflammatory medication can help with the pain and swelling. Your doctor may recommend a brace aid in the healing process, which will immobilize your arm/elbow. If non-surgical methods are ineffective, you may be a candidate for surgery. There are various procedures in which the diseased tissue will be removed.
