What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is a condition affecting the tendons connecting forearm flexor muscles to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow (medial epicondyle). Repetitive stress, overloading, and repetitive wrist flexing lead to localized pain, inflammation, and reduced forearm function.
Key Symptoms
- Inner elbow pain and localized tenderness
- Pain or weakness when gripping objects
- Pain when bending the wrist forward or twisting the forearm
- Forearm stiffness radiating toward the wrist
- Discomfort during lifting or daily manual tasks
Causes and Contributing Factors
- Sports activities: Golf, tennis, pickleball, baseball, softball, and weightlifting.
- Occupational repetition: Typing, construction, plumbing, and tool handling.
- Sudden intensity increases without adequate conditioning.
- Suboptimal equipment grip size or flawed swing mechanics.
Prevention and Recovery Strategies
- Warm up properly: Stretch forearm flexors and perform light dynamic movements.
- Strength and conditioning: Strengthen forearm, wrist, and shoulder stabilizers.
- Gradual progression: Avoid sudden volume spikes to let tendons adapt.
- Early intervention: Address pain early before chronic tendon degeneration occurs.
Medical Educational Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for clinical education and informational purposes only. It does not replace individualized medical advice, clinical diagnosis, or orthopedic surgical consultation. If you are experiencing acute pain or severe joint instability, please contact our Davao clinic or your nearest emergency medical center immediately.