Golfers Elbow Pain & Treatment

Golfer’s elbow — medically called medial epicondylitis — is pain on the inner side of the elbow from overusing the forearm tendons. Like tennis elbow, you don’t have to play the sport to get it; any repetitive gripping or wrist-flexing motion can cause it. Most cases heal without surgery. Our orthopedic and sports medicine team treats it across Long Island and northern New Jersey, with offices in Plainview, New Hyde Park, and Ronkonkoma, NY, and Clifton, Montville, and Plainfield, NJ.

What golfer’s elbow is

Golfer’s elbow develops when the tendons connecting your forearm muscles to the inner part of the elbow become irritated or break down from repetitive stress. Gripping, twisting, and repeated wrist-flexing motions — from sports, manual work, or daily tasks — are common triggers. It’s the same kind of tendon-overload problem as tennis elbow, just on the opposite (inner) side of the elbow.

The hallmark symptom is pain and tenderness on the inner elbow that worsens with gripping or bending the wrist, and it may radiate down the inner forearm. Some people also notice weakness in the grip.

How golfer’s elbow is treated

Treatment is conservative and effective for most people:

• Relative rest and activity modification — easing the aggravating motion, or adjusting technique and ergonomics, is the critical first step.
• Bracing and ice — a counterforce strap plus ice and anti-inflammatory medication help settle symptoms.
• Physical therapy — eccentric strengthening of the forearm tendons is the cornerstone of lasting recovery.
• Injections — for stubborn cases, a corticosteroid injection can give short-term relief, or PRP therapy may support tendon healing.
• Surgery — rarely needed, and only after months of full conservative care haven’t helped.

Are you a candidate for treatment?

It’s worth being evaluated when:

• You have persistent inner-elbow pain that worsens with gripping or wrist bending
• Rest and home care haven’t resolved it
• The pain is affecting work, sport, or daily activities
• You want a structured plan to recover and prevent recurrence

Related conditions

If your pain is on the outer side of the elbow instead, see our tennis elbow page. If you have inner-elbow pain with tingling into the ring and little fingers, see cubital tunnel syndrome, or return to our elbow pain overview.

Why patients across Long Island and North Jersey choose Empire

Insurance

Coverage varies by plan and by location, and we accept many major insurance plans across our New York and New Jersey offices. The simplest way to know exactly what your plan covers is to call — our team will verify your benefits before your visit, so there are no surprises. Whether you’re on Long Island or in North Jersey, reach out and we’ll walk you through your options.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the difference between golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow?

They’re the same type of tendon-overuse injury on opposite sides of the elbow: golfer’s elbow affects the inner side, tennis elbow the outer side. Treatment principles are very similar.

What causes golfer’s elbow?

Repetitive gripping and wrist-flexing that overloads the inner-elbow tendons — from sports, manual work, or daily activities. Over time this irritates and breaks down the tendon.

Will golfer’s elbow heal on its own?

Many cases improve with rest and activity changes, though it can take time. Getting evaluated early tends to speed recovery and prevents the problem from becoming chronic.

How long does recovery take?

Many cases improve within 6 to 12 weeks of consistent care, with full recovery sometimes taking several months. Sticking with the strengthening program is what makes the improvement last.

Do I need surgery?

Rarely. The large majority of cases resolve without surgery. It’s considered only when symptoms persist for many months despite full conservative treatment.

Can I keep exercising with golfer’s elbow?

Often you can continue some activity while easing the motion that flares it, then build back gradually. A therapist will help you find the right balance.