What is Golfer’s Elbow?
- Also known as lifter’s elbow, medial epicondylitis, medial epicondylalgia or medial epicondylopathy
- An injury to the muscles/tendons where they connect to the bone on the inside of the elbow
- Typically involves the flexor carpi radialis and pronator teres muscles
- If your palm is facing up, it generally affects the muscles that flex/curl your hand and fingers towards the ceiling, and turn you palm down towards the ground
What causes inner elbow pain?
- Excess strain on the tendons
- Repetitive/chronic overuse
- High force/torque placed on the muscles (often related to sports or occupation)
What are common symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?
- Pain and/or weakness with gripping and lifting objects
- Pain and/or weakness with pulling movements
- Pain worse at night
- Stiffness in the morning
- Tenderness/bruised feeling on inside of elbow
How can therapy help with medial elbow pain?
- Advice on modifying certain activities based on your specific case
- Exercises to help with pain relief, improve strength and function, and help you return to your activities. This is the most evidence-based treatment for this condition.
- Hands-on manual therapy or acupuncture to help with pain relief and movement of your arm
For a more detailed explanation on tendon pain and injuries, check out our tendinopathy blog.