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.
FAQs
Do only golfers get golfer's elbow?
No. Despite its name, golfer’s elbow can affect anyone who repeatedly grips, lifts, or twists the wrist and forearm. People who play baseball or softball, lift weights, use tools, type, or work on computers for long hours can develop it. The condition is simply named after golfers because of the similar wrist and forearm motion used in a golf swing.
Do counterforce straps help with golfer's elbow?
Yes. Counterforce straps, also called elbow braces, can reduce strain on the irritated tendon at the inside of the elbow. By spreading pressure across the forearm muscles, they make gripping and lifting less painful while the tendon heals. They don’t fix the underlying problem but can make daily tasks and rehab exercises more comfortable.
Can I workout with golfer's elbow?
It depends on the severity of your pain. Gentle, pain-free movements and light forearm or shoulder exercises are usually safe and can help maintain strength. Avoid heavy gripping, wrist curls, or any exercise that causes sharp or worsening pain. As symptoms improve, you can gradually return to normal training with proper technique and tendon rehab.
Do I need imaging or x-ray for golfer's elbow?
Usually not. Golfer’s elbow is often diagnosed with a physical exam and your activity history. X-rays can help rule out bone issues like arthritis or fractures, while an MRI or ultrasound may be used if the pain is severe, long-lasting, or not improving with conservative care. Most people don’t need imaging right away.
Does eccentric work help for golfer's elbow?
Yes. Eccentric exercises, where you slowly lower your wrist against resistance, can help strengthen the irritated tendon on the inside of the elbow. This type of loading encourages tendon healing, improves tolerance to stress, and reduces pain over time. Start with light resistance and controlled movement to avoid aggravation, and progress gradually as symptoms improve.
Should I use heat or ice for golfer's elbow?
Ice is best early on or after activity to calm irritation and reduce pain. Heat can be helpful later to relax tight muscles, improve blood flow, and prepare the area for stretching or exercise. Some people alternate ice and heat depending on how their elbow feels. If pain worsens or lasts longer than a few weeks, get it checked before continuing self-care.
Can poor posture cause elbow pain?
Yes. Slouching with rounded shoulders and a forward head can change how your arms and wrists move, putting extra strain on the tendons that attach to the elbow. Over time, this added stress can contribute to problems like tennis or golfer’s elbow. Improving posture and strengthening your upper back and shoulders can help reduce pressure and protect the elbows.
When can I return to golf after golfer's elbow?
Most people can return to golf once pain has eased and strength and grip feel stable, usually after 8–12 weeks of consistent rehab and activity modification. Start with short sessions and slow, controlled swings before playing a full round. If pain returns or grip feels weak, pause and continue rehab to avoid setbacks.
Do injections help with golfer's elbow?
Sometimes. Corticosteroid injections can temporarily reduce pain and inflammation in golfer’s elbow, especially if symptoms are severe and not improving with rest and rehab. However, injections don’t repair the tendon and repeated use can weaken tissue over time. They’re usually considered after conservative treatments haven’t worked and are best combined with a strengthening program for long-term recovery.
Is chiropractic care safe for golfer's elbow?
Yes, when performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor. Treatment is tailored to your elbow, wrist, and shoulder mechanics and avoids aggressive movements that could worsen tendon irritation. Most people tolerate adjustments and soft-tissue work well, especially when combined with exercise and activity modification. If there are signs of a tear or other serious injury, our chiropractors will refer you for further evaluation.
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