Golfer’s Elbow Care with Medial Epicondylitis Info

Many suffer from Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, arises from repetitive stress or overuse of the tendons in the inner elbow. While commonly associated with golf, it can affect anyone due to improper movement patterns or excessive strain. Symptoms include discomfort, stiffness, and reduced grip strength. Non-surgical care, focusing on proper technique, rehabilitation, and ergonomic modifications, is often the most effective approach. Chiropractic and physiotherapy care plays a key role in relieving discomfort and restoring elbow mobility. At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, we offer targeted, non-invasive solutions to address the root causes of golfer’s elbow, ensuring lasting respite and improved function.

Golfer’s elbow care focuses on managing medial epicondylitis, a condition involving inflammation or microtears of the tendons attached to the inner part of the elbow. Despite its name, this issue isn’t limited to golfers—it often affects anyone who repetitively grips, twists, or lifts with their wrist or forearm. Whether it arises from sports, office work, or household tasks, the discomfort can interfere with daily routines and functional use of the arm. At Chiropractic Specialty Center®, our non-invasive approach combines physiotherapy, chiropractic, and focused rehabilitation to address underlying biomechanical stress, improve tissue resilience, and promote healing. We avoid aggressive techniques or rotational manipulation, favoring targeted, safe care tailored to your condition.

If you’re dealing with persistent elbow issues, this page provides everything you need to know from causes and risk factors to recovery strategies and long-term management through active participation. This page is designed for those who want to take action now with safe, practical, and medically accepted methods that work with the body, not against it.

Key Takeaways for Golfer’s Elbow Care

3 Most Important Takeaways (Written for Action & Clarity):

  1. Medial epicondylitis is often caused by repetitive gripping or wrist motion — addressing the cause is as important as managing the discomfort.

  2. Non-invasive care combining chiropractic, physiotherapy, and rehab can help restore function without injections or procedures.

  3. Home-based changes, like modifying activities and improving ergonomics, accelerate recovery and help prevent flare-ups.

Contact Us To Begin Care Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow, reach out via our contact page to connect with our team of non-invasive spine and joint specialists ready to guide you through integrative care.

Factors Contributing to Golfer’s Elbow

Repetitive Wrist Movements – Activities that require gripping, lifting, or wrist flexion may strain the tendons.
Improper Form in Sports or Daily Activities – Using incorrect grip techniques in golf, tennis, or weightlifting may place excessive stress on the elbow joint.
Carrying Heavy Objects – Holding or lifting weights without maintaining a slight bend at the elbow can lead to irritation.
Sudden Increase in Activity Levels – Engaging in activities without gradual conditioning may contribute to strain.

Early recognition of symptoms can help prevent further discomfort and long-term complications.

Common Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

Discomfort or stiffness in the inner elbow extending toward the forearm.
Localized tenderness near the bony prominence inside the elbow.
Reduced grip strength or wrist instability when holding objects.
Tingling or sensitivity that may travel down the arm, sometimes affecting the pinky finger.

A comprehensive assessment can help identify the root cause and guide targeted support strategies.

A Proactive Approach to Supporting Elbow Health

Modify activity levels to reduce excessive strain on the elbow.
Maintain proper form and technique in sports and daily tasks.
Incorporate stretching and strengthening exercises for wrist and forearm muscles.
Seek professional guidance for a structured recovery plan.

A holistic, non-invasive approach may help restore function and reduce elbow discomfort naturally.

Factors That Contribute to Elbow Discomfort in Golfers

Elbow discomfort related to golf often stems from repetitive movements, improper technique, and muscle imbalances. Understanding the contributing factors can help prevent and address the condition effectively.

Key Factors That May Lead to Elbow Discomfort in Golfers

medial epicondylitis & golfer's elbow shown

Muscle Imbalances – Weakness or tightness in the forearm flexor muscles can strain the tendons, increasing susceptibility to discomfort.
Overuse of Muscles – Frequent or repetitive swings without adequate rest and recovery may contribute to irritation.
Improper Golf Swing TechniqueExcessive wrist movement or improper grip can place unnecessary stress on the elbow and forearm tendons.
Inappropriate Golf Equipment – Using clubs that are too heavy, too long, or not suited to your body type may contribute to strain on the elbow joint.
Lack of Proper Warm-Up & Stretching – Skipping warm-ups, stretching, or cooldowns may increase the risk of strain on the elbow and forearm muscles.

Recognizing these factors early may help reduce strain and promote long-term elbow health.

Preventive Measures to Support Elbow Health

Use Proper Technique – Maintain correct wrist and arm positioning throughout the swing.
Modify Practice Routines – Avoid overuse by incorporating rest and recovery periods into training sessions.
Ensure Proper Equipment Fit – Select golf clubs that match your height, strength, and skill level to minimize stress on the elbow joint.
Incorporate Strength & Flexibility Exercises – Strengthening and stretching forearm and wrist muscles may help improve resilience.
Apply Cold Care (if needed) – Ice application may help manage discomfort after prolonged use or repetitive movements.

If discomfort persists, early assessment and corrective support may help restore optimal function and prevent long-term strain.

Care for Elbow Discomfort

Elbow discomfort from overuse, strain, or repetitive movements often responds well to targeted, non-invasive care. Effective management focuses on restoring function and supporting recovery without resorting to invasive interventions.

Key Considerations for Managing Elbow Discomfort

Avoid Unnecessary Procedures – Surgery is not typically required for elbow discomfort from repetitive strain.
Limit Steroid Injections – While steroids may offer short-term respite, they can weaken soft tissues over time.
Prioritize Targeted TherapyA structured care plan that includes corrective exercises, muscle re-education, and manual therapies may provide long-term benefits.

Options for Elbow Support & Recovery

Gentle Manual Care– Targeted mobilization techniques may help support soft tissue recovery.
Targeted Rehabilitation – Strengthening exercises for the forearm, wrist, and elbow may improve resilience.
Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy)Icing the elbow can support recovery without risks associated with steroid injections.
Ergonomic Modifications – Adjusting grip technique and equipment may reduce unnecessary strain.

By addressing the root cause, targeted care supports long-term function while minimizing the need for unnecessary interventions.

Targeted Care for Golfer’s Elbow & Inner Elbow Discomfort

Elbow discomfort related to overuse, strain, or repetitive movements often responds to targeted, conservative care. Non-invasive care methods, such as focused rehabilitative exercises, manual care, and ergonomic modifications, may support lasting recovery.

How to Minimize Strain & Support Recovery

Adjust Activity Levels – Limiting repetitive strain, such as excessive practice at the driving range, may prevent worsening.
Support Proper Biomechanics – Ensuring correct grip and swing technique may reduce unnecessary stress on the elbow joint.
Gradual Warm-Ups & Cool-Downs – Stretching before and after activities may support soft tissue resilience.
Cold Therapy (Cryotherapy) – Applying a wrapped ice pack for short intervals may provide comfort.

Effective Non-Invasive Options for Elbow Support

Manual TherapyTargeted joint mobilization may help restore movement.
Rehabilitative Exercises – Strengthening the forearm and wrist muscles may reduce repetitive strain on the elbow joint.
Therapeutic Ultrasound & Electrotherapy – These methods may help support muscle and soft tissue recovery.
Ergonomic Modifications – Ensuring proper grip and adjusting training habits may prevent recurrence.

With early intervention and a structured care plan, non-invasive care may support long-term function while reducing reliance on temporary measures.

Author:

Yama Zafer, D.C., Educational background in physiotherapy and chiropractic, graduated from Cleveland Chiropractic University in Kansas City, who has spent nearly 3 decades in physiotherapy and chiropractic, read more about Y. Zafer.

Peer-Reviewed Medical References:

  • Smidt N, van der Windt DAWM, Assendelft WJJ, et al. Effectiveness of physiotherapy for lateral epicondylitis: a systematic review. Ann Med. 2002;34(1):51–62.

  • Amin NH, Kumar NS, Schickendantz MS. Medial epicondylitis: evaluation and management. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2015 Jun;23(6):348–55.

  • Wilson JJ, Best TM. Common overuse tendon problems: a review and recommendations for treatment. Am Fam Physician. 2005 Sep 1;72(5):811–8.

  • Ghai S, Ghai I, Narciss S. Influence of taping on force sense accuracy: a systematic review. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2023 Oct 20;15(1):113.

  • Masiello F, Pati I, Veropalumbo E, Pupella S, Cruciani M. Ultrasound-guided PRP for tendinopathies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Blood Transfus. 2023 Mar;21(2):102–12.

  • Bruni D, Pierson S, Sarwar F, Ring D, Ramtin S. Are pathologic features of medial epicondylitis related to mucoid degeneration? Clin Orthop Relat Res. [Year, volume, pages missing—please verify source].

  • Taylor CR, Hannafin JA. Eccentric exercise for chronic epicondylitis: a prospective randomized trial. J Shoulder Elbow Surg. 2010 Sep;19(6):917–22.

Last Updated:

Last updated June 16, 2025: Golfer’s Elbow Care with Medial Epicondylitis Info.

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