Golfer’s Elbow
Top Rated Golfer’s Elbow Doctor in Kansas City, MO, Lenexa, KS, and Independence, MO
What is Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)?
Are you experiencing elbow pain? Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, often manifests as pain on the medial (inner) side of your elbow extending down to your wrist. It’s typically caused by damage to tendons in your wrist and forearm.
What is Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)?
Are you experiencing persistent elbow pain, especially on the inner side of your arm? Golfer’s elbow—also known as medial epicondylitis—is a common overuse injury that affects the tendons connecting your forearm muscles to the elbow. While often associated with golfers, this condition can impact anyone who performs repetitive wrist or arm movements.
Pain typically develops along the inner elbow and may extend down toward the wrist, making everyday tasks more difficult over time.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is caused by repeated stress or strain on the forearm muscles and tendons. This overuse leads to small tears in the tendon tissue, resulting in pain and inflammation.
Common causes include:
- Repetitive wrist bending or gripping motions (golf, baseball, weightlifting)
- Forceful tennis serves or improper technique
- Using heavy or poorly fitted sports equipment
- Lifting or carrying heavy objects
- Manual labor involving tools such as hammers, axes, or chainsaws
- Prolonged use of hand tools or repetitive workplace tasks
Even non-athletes can develop golfer’s elbow from routine daily activities or occupational strain.
What Are the Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?
Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen without treatment. You may experience:
- Pain or tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
- Stiffness when bending the arm
- Weakness in the hands or wrists
- Pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting objects
- Occasional tingling or numbness extending into the fingers
If these symptoms begin interfering with your daily activities, it’s important to seek evaluation from an orthopedic specialist.
How is Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosed?
At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, our specialists perform a thorough physical exam to evaluate your symptoms, strength, and range of motion. In some cases, imaging such as X-rays or MRI may be used to rule out other conditions or assess the severity of tendon damage.
How is Golfer’s Elbow Treated?
Most cases of golfer’s elbow can be treated without surgery. Our goal is to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore full function of your arm.
Treatment options include:
- Rest and activity modification to avoid further strain
- Ice therapy to reduce inflammation
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Bracing or support to relieve tendon stress
- Physical therapy focused on strengthening and flexibility
- Corticosteroid or regenerative injections when appropriate
In rare cases where symptoms persist despite conservative care, minimally invasive surgical treatment may be recommended.
Golfer’s Elbow Treatment at Orthopedic Health of Kansas City
At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, we take a personalized approach to care. Every patient’s condition, lifestyle, and goals are different—and your treatment plan should reflect that.
- Experienced Specialists: Our board-certified orthopedic surgeons have extensive experience treating elbow conditions, including golfer’s elbow.
- Customized Treatment Plans: We tailor your care plan to your specific needs, whether that involves therapy, injections, or advanced procedures.
- Advanced Technology: Our clinics are equipped with modern diagnostic and treatment tools to support accurate care.
- Comprehensive Approach: We focus not just on treatment, but also on prevention and long-term recovery.
How Can I Prevent Golfer’s Elbow?
Preventing golfer’s elbow starts with reducing strain on your forearm muscles and improving movement mechanics.
Helpful prevention strategies include:
- Using proper technique during sports and physical activity
- Choosing equipment that fits your body and skill level
- Strengthening forearm muscles with targeted exercises
- Stretching regularly to maintain flexibility
- Making ergonomic adjustments at work or home
Early intervention and proper conditioning can significantly reduce your risk of developing this condition.
Golfer’s Elbow Treatment At Orthopedic Health of Kansas City
We serve patients from Kansas City, MO, Lenexa, KS, and Independence, MO.
Golfer’s Elbow Doctors in Kansas City
Here at Ortho Health of KC, our experienced physicians are ready to help you achieve your pain-free, mobile lifestyle. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, please call us at (816)239-3843 and set up an appointment at one of our locations.
Jeffrey M. Bradley, M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Hand, Wrist & Elbow
Michael A. Boin, MD
Specializing in injuries of the Shoulder & Elbow
Erich J. Lingenfelter M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Shoulder & Elbow
Andrew J. Taiber, M.D.
Specializing in injuries of the Hand, Wrist & Elbow
Frequently Asked Questions About Golfer’s Elbow
How long does golfer’s elbow take to heal?
Recovery time varies depending on severity, but many patients improve within a few weeks to a few months with proper treatment and rest.
Can golfer’s elbow go away without treatment?
Mild cases may improve with rest, but without addressing the underlying cause, symptoms can linger or return.
Is golfer’s elbow the same as tennis elbow?
No. Golfer’s elbow affects the inner side of the elbow, while tennis elbow impacts the outer portion.
Will I need surgery?
Surgery is rarely needed and is typically only considered if symptoms persist after several months of non-surgical treatment.
When should I see a specialist?
If your pain is ongoing, worsening, or limiting your ability to perform daily tasks, it’s best to seek evaluation early.
Golfer’s Elbow Doctors in Kansas City
Here at Orthopedic Health of Kansas City, our experienced physicians are ready to help you regain a pain-free, active lifestyle. If you are experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow, call us at (816) 239-3843 or schedule an appointment at one of our convenient locations.
We proudly serve patients in Kansas City, MO, Lenexa, KS, and Independence, MO.