Golfer's elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain on the inside of the elbow. Despite the name, you don't have to play golf to develop it. It affects anyone who repeatedly uses their wrist and forearm in gripping, twisting, or flexing motions. The pain comes from inflammation or micro-tears in the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the inner side of your elbow.
This condition typically starts with mild discomfort that builds over time. You might first notice it during or after activities that involve gripping, like using tools, typing, lifting weights, or throwing. The pain can spread down your forearm toward your wrist, and you may feel weakness when trying to grip objects or make a fist. Stiffness in the elbow and tenderness when you press on the inside of the joint are also common.
What makes golfer's elbow different from other elbow issues is where the pain shows up and what triggers it. If the inside of your elbow hurts when you shake hands, turn a doorknob, or pick something up, that's a strong indicator.
What Causes Golfer's Elbow?
Golfer's elbow develops when the tendons on the inside of the elbow are overloaded. Common causes include:
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Repetitive gripping, twisting, or wrist flexion in work or sports
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Poor mechanics during activities like throwing, lifting, or swinging
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Sudden increases in training volume or intensity without adequate conditioning
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Weak forearm, wrist, or grip strength
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Tight or imbalanced muscles in the forearm and shoulder
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Jobs that require repetitive hand and wrist use, like construction, typing, or manual labor
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Improper equipment or technique in sports like golf, baseball, or tennis
The injury builds up over time. Small amounts of stress accumulate until the tendon can't keep up with the demand, leading to pain and dysfunction.
When Golfer's Elbow Becomes Chronic
Most cases of golfer's elbow improve with rest, activity modification, and early intervention. But if left untreated or if you continue aggravating it, the condition can become chronic. Persistent golfer's elbow can lead to long-term weakness, ongoing pain, and difficulty performing tasks that require grip strength. The longer it goes on, the more challenging it becomes to rehabilitate.
When to Seek Help
You don't need to wait until you can't grip anything to address golfer's elbow. If pain on the inside of your elbow is affecting your work, your training, or everyday tasks like opening jars or carrying bags, it's time to get it assessed.
Living With Golfer's Elbow
Golfer's elbow is highly treatable when approached correctly. Addressing the underlying causes, building strength, and improving mechanics can help you return to full function without ongoing pain. At Kevlar Performance & Rehab in Burlington, we work with people dealing with golfer's elbow to help them move better and feel better.