Golfer's elbow

Golfer’s elbow is the name given to pain experienced on the inner aspect of the elbow, usually as a result of overuse.

It arises due to overloading of the flexor tendons of the forearm.

It is often referred to as a ‘golfer’s elbow’ due to the fact that this tendon bears high load when playing golf. Excessive right wrist flexion (bending the wrist in the direction of the palm) in a right handed golfer may be responsible.

Although golf players can develop a golfers elbow the vast majority of individuals who develop symptoms do so as a result of repetitive flexion at the wrist while performing lifting and carrying tasks. Hence the term medial epicondylitis is frequently used. 

Localised pain is felt directly over the common flexor tendon in the inner elbow which sometimes radiates down the inside of the forearm muscle bulk.

Symptoms are aggravated by any activity which requires forceful flexion of the forearm muscles such as gripping, lifting and carrying tasks.

A medial epicondylitis can be reliably diagnosed by your doctor or physiotherapist by taking a history of your condition. In some circumstances it may be necessary to conduct a physical examination but this is usually not necessary.

The main feature is usually pain directly over the tendon when contracting the forearm muscles (when gripping or resisting wrist flexion). X-rays or other scans are not routinely required.