About golfer's elbow
Golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. These tendons bend the wrist and fingers and turn the palm down. Golfers, throwers, climbers, and people who do heavy gripping at work are all at risk.
Like tennis elbow, the problem is usually worn, disorganized tendon tissue rather than inflammation. The ulnar nerve runs close by, so some people also notice tingling in the ring and small fingers, which needs its own evaluation.
Common symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow that may spread into the forearm
- Pain with gripping, lifting, or bending the wrist
- Weakness in grip or when turning the forearm
- Tenderness over the inner elbow bump
- Stiffness after rest or first thing in the morning
Common causes and risk factors
- Repetitive gripping, throwing, or swinging
- Poor technique or equipment in golf, throwing, or climbing
- Sudden increases in training or manual work
- Age-related changes in tendon capacity
How we diagnose it
Our physicians examine the inner elbow and test resisted wrist bending and forearm turning. Ultrasound at the exam table shows tendon degeneration, partial tears, and the condition of the ulnar nerve and the nearby ligament. If numbness or weakness suggests nerve involvement, nerve testing may be added.
How Propel treats golfer's elbow
The first step is a progressive tendon loading program, combined with adjustments to technique, grip, and training volume so you can keep playing or working. We look at sleep and overall load, since these affect tendon recovery.
For golfer's elbow that persists, Dr. Gruner and Dr. Chen offer ultrasound-guided PRP to support tendon healing. Dr. Gruner performs percutaneous tenotomy (Tenex) to remove damaged tissue so healthy tissue can regenerate. Dr. Chen has published novel ultrasound-guided nerve ablation techniques for resistant golfer's elbow, which target the nerves that carry the pain.
Watch: Golfer's Elbow explained
More videos
Where each condition hurts, which tendon is involved, and why telling them apart changes treatment.Featuring Dr. Gruner
What to expect at your visit
- 1.
We listen first
Your visit opens with a real conversation: how the problem started, what you have already tried, and the activity you want back.
- 2.
Exam and in-office ultrasound
A hands-on exam, then ultrasound at the exam table, often while you move, so your physician can see the tendon, joint, or nerve involved.
- 3.
A clear diagnosis and plan
You leave knowing what is wrong and what your options are, from strength-based rehab to procedures, and why we recommend each one.
- 4.
Treatment and follow-through
Most procedures happen here in the office. We coordinate with your physical therapist and check progress against the goals you set.
Rehab protocols
Dr. Gruner's week-by-week recovery guidelines. Your plan is individualized; follow these with your physician and physical therapist.
Clinical evidence
Published studies our physicians draw on. Results in studies do not predict any one person's outcome.
Questions about golfer's elbow
- What is the difference between golfer's elbow and tennis elbow?
- Golfer's elbow affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow, while tennis elbow affects the outside. Both are overuse tendon problems and are treated in similar ways.
- Can I keep golfing with golfer's elbow?
- Often, yes, with changes to volume, grip, and swing mechanics. Our physicians help you find a level of play that allows the tendon to recover while you strengthen it.
- Why do my fingers tingle with elbow pain?
- Tingling in the ring and small fingers can mean the ulnar nerve is irritated near the inner elbow. We check the nerve with ultrasound and may recommend nerve testing.