Golfer's Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is pain on the inside of the elbow caused by irritation or small tears in the forearm tendons that help you grip and flex your wrist. Despite the name, it’s not just for golfers, anyone who lifts, twists, types, or uses their hands repetitively can develop it. At KIRO, our chiropractors focus on easing tendon strain, improving arm and wrist mechanics, and guiding safe strengthening so you can get back to work, sports, and daily activities without lingering elbow pain.
Why does golfer's elbow occur?
Golfer’s elbow happens when the tendons that attach to the inside of your elbow become overloaded from repetitive gripping, wrist flexing, or twisting. Motions like swinging a golf club, throwing, lifting weights, or even typing and using a mouse can strain these tendons over time. Poor shoulder and wrist mechanics, weak forearm muscles, and sudden increases in activity can make the area more vulnerable and lead to irritation or tiny tears.
What are the common symptoms with golfer's elbow?
Golfer’s elbow usually causes pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow that can extend down the forearm. Grip strength often feels weaker, and twisting motions, like turning a doorknob or lifting a heavy bag, may be painful. Some people notice stiffness in the morning, numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers, and discomfort when bending the wrist or making a fist.
Who is most at risk of getting golfer's elbow?
Anyone who repeatedly grips or flexes the wrist can develop golfer’s elbow. This includes golfers, baseball and softball players, weightlifters, and people who work with their hands, such as carpenters, plumbers, and painters. Office workers who type or use a mouse for long hours are also at risk. The condition is more common in people ages 30 to 60, those with weak forearm or shoulder muscles, and anyone who suddenly increases activity without proper conditioning.
How do KIRO doctors treat golfer's elbow?
At KIRO, care for golfer’s elbow starts with a detailed exam of your elbow, wrist, and shoulder, plus a baseline Nervous System Scan to see how tendon irritation is affecting arm function.
Symptomatic phase (first few weeks): Our chiropractors use gentle, precise adjustments to the elbow, wrist, and spine to improve mechanics and reduce tendon stress. Soft-tissue therapy, gentle stretching of the forearm flexors, and activity modifications help calm pain and irritation.
Corrective phase (next 6–8 weeks): We focus on rebuilding strength and stability in the forearm and shoulder using targeted exercises, nerve glides, and movement retraining. Ergonomic and technique coaching, like how you hold tools, type, or swing a club, helps prevent further strain.
Preventive phase (ongoing): Periodic adjustments and progressive strengthening keep the elbow healthy and reduce the risk of flare-ups.
We also perform monthly Nervous System Scans to track recovery and refine your plan. Multiple doctors rotate in your care to provide diverse expertise and the safest, most effective treatment.
How long does treatment take for golfer's elbow?
Most people feel less pain and better grip strength within 4–6 weeks of consistent care and activity changes. Rebuilding tendon strength and arm mechanics typically takes 8–12 weeks, depending on how long the condition has been present and how well you follow your rehab plan. Chronic or severe cases can take several months, but steady progress is expected when treatment and home exercises are followed closely.
What are the benefits of chiropractic care for golfer's elbow?
Chiropractic care for golfer’s elbow provides several important benefits, including:
Faster pain relief and reduced tendon irritation
Improved elbow, wrist, and shoulder mechanics to offload stress
Better grip strength and endurance for daily tasks and sports
Guided rehab to safely rebuild flexibility and stability
A non-drug, non-surgical approach to recovery
These benefits help you return to work, sports, and normal activity with less pain and lower risk of flare-ups.
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