Conditions › Upper Limb › Golfer's Elbow
Upper LimbPain on the inside of your elbow after repetitive gripping or swinging? That's usually golfer's elbow.
Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) involves irritation of the tendons on the inside of the elbow, where the forearm muscles that flex the wrist and fingers attach to the bone. It behaves similarly to tennis elbow but affects the opposite side of the joint.
The shared tendon of the wrist and finger flexor muscles is the primary structure involved.
Similar to tennis elbow, this involves gradual tendon change from repetitive load rather than sudden injury.
The ulnar nerve runs close to this area, which is why some cases involve ring and little finger symptoms.
Tightness through the inner forearm muscles commonly accompanies the tendon irritation.
Repetitive flexion and gripping under load is the most common mechanical driver.
Like all tendons, recovery relies on gradual, appropriate reloading over time.
The inner elbow and forearm are traversed by the Heart and Pericardium meridians in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Persistent tightness and pain here is traditionally viewed as stagnation along these pathways, often linked to overuse of the arm.
No β it affects the opposite (inner) side of the elbow, though the underlying tendon process is similar.
Many clients find release of the inner forearm muscles helpful alongside gradual strengthening.
The ulnar nerve runs close to this area and can sometimes be involved, especially with ring and little finger symptoms.
Similar to tennis elbow, this can take a few months of consistent, gradual management.
Modifying technique and load rather than complete rest is usually more effective.
It may help with the accompanying forearm muscle tightness.
Yes, technique plays a significant role in golf, throwing sports, and weight training.
Stretching helps but usually needs to be paired with a gradual strengthening program.
Yes, despite the name, it's common with many repetitive gripping and lifting activities.
If nerve symptoms are significant or progressive, or if there's no improvement after months of care.
Reduce repetitive gripping and flexion activities temporarily.
Wrist flexor stretches, held gently, can ease tightness.
Progressive strengthening of the forearm flexors supports recovery.
Consider having your golf swing or lifting technique reviewed.
Icing after aggravating activity can help manage discomfort.
This page is general education, not a diagnosis. If anything above applies to you, please see a doctor or visit an emergency department rather than booking a massage.