Golfer's elbow

Golfer's elbow is pain or soreness in the inner part of the elbow from movement of muscles and tendons in the arm. But it isn't just a problem with the elbow. It also involves the wrist. When the wrist moves, it affects the tendons that attach to the elbow.

Golfer's elbow causes pain on the inside of your elbow. Your elbow may feel stiff, and it may hurt when you make a fist. Some people with golfer's elbow feel weakness and tingling in the arm and fingers. These symptoms can happen slowly or quickly. The pain may get worse when you swing a racket or golf club, squeeze a ball, shake hands with someone, turn a doorknob, lift weights, or flex your wrist.

Your doctor may ask about your health. They'll then examine you by pressing on your arm. They may also move your hand and wrist in certain ways to see if that causes pain. These tests will show the doctor if your pain is in your elbow and where in the elbow it is.

The goal of treatment is to relieve pain and allow the tendon in the elbow to heal.

• Treatment usually starts with rest, using ice and anti-inflammatory medicines, and trying a physical therapy and exercise program (rehab). Many people get better using these treatments.
• If a few weeks of rest and rehab have not relieved pain, some people get cortisone (steroid) shots. These are shots of medicine into the painful area to reduce swelling. A steroid shot may help relieve pain for a short time.
• If other treatments don't work and you are not getting better, surgery might be an option.

• Rest your elbow and wrist. Try to avoid movements that are painful. You may have to do this for weeks to months. Follow your doctor's directions for how long to rest.
• Put ice or a cold pack on your elbow for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when you are awake) or until the swelling goes down. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
• Prop up the sore arm on a pillow when you ice it or anytime you sit or lie down during the next 3 days. Try to keep it above the level of your heart. This will help reduce swelling.
• Take pain medicine exactly as directed.
  • If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
  • If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.
• If your doctor gave you a brace or splint, use it as directed. A "counterforce" brace is a strap around the forearm, just below the elbow. It may ease the pressure on the tendon and may spread force throughout the arm.
• Follow your doctor's or physical therapist's directions for exercise.

To prevent golfer's elbow

• After your elbow has healed, learn the best techniques for your work or sport. A physical or occupational therapist can help you.