Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)

Medial epicondylitis, commonly known as Golfer's Elbow, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the inside of the elbow where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump (medial epicondyle). Despite the name, you don't have to play golf to develop this condition — it can result from any repetitive wrist or arm movements.

Medial epicondylitis can cause pain, tenderness, stiffness, and weakness in the hand or wrist, affecting your ability to perform daily tasks.

Medial epicondylitis is typically caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the muscles and tendons of the forearm, especially from:

• Swinging sports (golf, tennis)
• Throwing activities (baseball, football)
• Repetitive manual work (plumbing, carpentry, painting)
• Forceful wrist and finger movements (lifting, gripping)

Small tears in the tendon gradually build up over time, leading to pain and inflammation.

You may be at higher risk for developing medial epicondylitis if you:

• Are between the ages of 30–50
• Participate in sports or jobs with repetitive hand movements
• Have poor technique during sports or lifting
• Experience sudden increases in activity levels

Early recognition and treatment can help prevent worsening symptoms.

Signs and symptoms of medial epicondylitis include:

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
• Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning
• Weak grip strength
• Pain that worsens with wrist or forearm movements
• Radiating pain into the forearm and wrist

Symptoms usually develop gradually and worsen with continued activity.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, diagnosis typically involves:

• Detailed medical history and activity review
• Physical examination, including tenderness over the medial epicondyle and resisted wrist flexion tests
• Imaging studies:
  • X-rays (to rule out fractures or arthritis)
  • Ultrasound or MRI (to assess tendon damage in more severe cases)

An accurate diagnosis helps guide the most effective treatment plan.

Most cases of medial epicondylitis can be managed successfully without surgery, including:

• Rest and activity modification to reduce strain on the elbow
• Ice therapy to reduce inflammation and swelling
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to manage pain
• Physical therapy:
  • Stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles
• Bracing or strapping:
  • A counterforce brace can help relieve tendon strain during activity

A gradual return to activities, guided by your provider, helps ensure full recovery.

For persistent or severe cases, Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah offers advanced treatment options:

• Corticosteroid injections:
  • Powerful anti-inflammatory medication to quickly reduce pain and swelling
• Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy:
  • Uses your body's own healing factors to promote tendon repair naturally
• Ultrasound-guided injections:
  • For precise placement and maximum effectiveness

Injection therapies can be an excellent option to avoid surgery and promote faster healing.

Surgery is rarely necessary but may be considered if:

• Symptoms persist after 6–12 months of conservative treatment
• There is severe tendon degeneration or a partial tear

Surgical options typically involve removing damaged tissue and reattaching healthy tendon to the bone.

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, surgery is always a last resort after exploring all non-invasive options.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified musculoskeletal and pain management specialists
• Advanced diagnostic imaging and targeted therapies
• Personalized, comprehensive treatment plans
• Minimally invasive approaches to speed up recovery and return to activity

Our mission is to help you regain strength, reduce pain, and return to doing the activities you enjoy — pain-free.