Golfer’s Elbow – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors start by asking about symptoms like pain, stiffness, or a weak grip. They press on the inside of the elbow and ask you to move your arm or fingers to check for discomfort.
Sometimes, doctors order an X-ray to look for fractures or arthritis. Rarely, they recommend advanced scans like MRI to view the forearm muscles and tendon tissues.
Common checks used in diagnosis:
| Method | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Medical History | Understand past injuries or ongoing symptoms |
| Physical Examination | Find tenderness and test movement and strength |
| X-ray | Rule out bone and joint issues |
| MRI (if needed) | Get a detailed view of muscles and tendons |
Treatment
Medicines and Pain Relief
Doctors often suggest non-prescription pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, and acetaminophen. These medicines reduce discomfort and inflammation.
| Medicine | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ibuprofen | Reduces pain/ swelling | Over-the-counter |
| Naproxen sodium | Reduces pain/ swelling | Over-the-counter |
| Acetaminophen | Pain relief | Over-the-counter |
| Corticosteroid | Pain (short-term) | Not recommended for long use |
| Platelet Therapy | Experimental relief | Needs more research |
Some doctors may use corticosteroid injections for pain, but these are not long-term solutions. Platelet-rich plasma injections are also being studied. In this method, doctors draw blood, concentrate the platelets, and inject them into the sore spot on the elbow.
Researchers are still studying how well this treatment works.
Physical Treatments and Exercises
Most people start with conservative care. Resting the elbow and avoiding painful motions is the first step.
You can use ice packs three to four times a day for 15-20 minutes each time to lower swelling and discomfort. Wrap the ice in a towel to protect your skin.
A brace that wraps around the forearm can help reduce stress on the muscles and tendons. When pain improves, you can begin gentle stretching and strengthening exercises.
Increase exercises slowly with guidance from a medical professional or physical therapist. Progressive loading helps tendons heal. Some recovery plans may also include pulsed ultrasound therapy.
A sample list of therapy steps:
- Rest and limit activities that cause pain.
- Apply ice packs with a towel several times per day.
- Wear a counterforce brace if recommended.
- Begin gentle stretches and strengthening exercises.
- Seek help from a therapist, if needed.
- Return slowly to sports or heavy gripping once pain is gone.
Review your movement techniques with a coach or instructor for sports like golf or tennis to help prevent future problems.
Surgical Procedures
Doctors may suggest surgery if symptoms continue for six to twelve months despite other treatments. Different surgical approaches exist.
Some doctors use a minimally invasive method, such as the percutaneous tenotomy (TENEX) procedure, which uses ultrasound to guide the removal of damaged tendon tissue. In difficult cases, traditional surgery, elbow arthroscopy, or ligament reconstruction may be options.
Surgery has risks, including infection, nerve damage, or a long recovery. Doctors usually try non-surgical care first. After surgery, you will need a period of rest, therapy, and activity restrictions.
Getting Ready for Your Medical Visit
Steps You Can Take Before Seeing Your Doctor
To get the most out of your appointment, prepare ahead of time. Making a list helps you remember important details.
Consider including these items:
Describe Your Symptoms: Write down when the pain started and if it has changed.
Health and Medication List: Note any ongoing health problems and all medicines or supplements you take, with dosages.
Daily Activities: Record how often and how intensely you play sports or do activities that might strain your elbow. Mention any changes in your routine, training, or equipment.
Injury Record: List any recent injuries, especially those that could affect your arm or elbow.
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Questions for the Doctor: Prepare specific questions for your provider. Example Questions:
- What is likely causing this pain?
- Could something else be causing my symptoms?
- Are any tests needed?
- What treatment do you suggest?
- When can I go back to sports or activities?
- How long should I rest my elbow?
- What exercises are safe during recovery?
- Will surgery be necessary?
- How often do I need follow-up visits?
Bring your notes to the appointment. You can add your own questions as well.
Questions Your Health Provider May Ask
The doctor will likely ask about your symptoms and routine. If you are ready for their questions, your visit can go faster.
Topics may include:
- Pain Patterns: Is the discomfort steady, or does it come and go? How strong is it?
- Activity Triggers: Do certain movements or tasks—like lifting, typing, or gripping items—make the pain worse?
- Impact on Life: Does your elbow affect your daily activities or sleep?
- Exercise Habits: What is your workout routine? Have you changed how you train or the equipment you use?
- Job and Hobbies: What does your work involve? Do your hobbies put stress on your arm?
- Past Treatments: Have you tried resting, using ice, or taking medications at home? Did anything help?
If you give clear and detailed answers, your doctor from Healthnile can recommend the right treatment and advice. This helps them rule out other health problems and guide your recovery plan.
