Chapel Hill, NC
Elbow Condition

Golfer's Elbow
Treatment

Medial epicondylitis responds well to regenerative therapies. We treat the underlying tendon damage-and address any associated nerve irritation.

Understanding Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) is damage to the tendons that attach to the inside of the elbow. These tendons connect the forearm muscles that flex your wrist and grip objects.

Like tennis elbow, most people with golfer's elbow have never played golf. Any activity involving repetitive gripping, throwing, or wrist flexion can cause it- weightlifting, climbing, throwing sports, or even carrying heavy bags.

Golfer's Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow

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Golfer's Elbow

Medial Epicondylitis

  • Pain on INSIDE of elbow
  • Wrist flexor tendons affected
  • May have nerve symptoms
Related

Tennis Elbow

Lateral Epicondylitis

  • Pain on OUTSIDE of elbow
  • Wrist extensor tendons affected
  • More common overall

Learn more →

Signs of Golfer's Elbow

Pain on Inner Elbow

Burning or aching on the bony bump inside the elbow

Pain When Gripping

Difficulty holding objects, shaking hands, or making a fist

Pain with Wrist Flexion

Worse when bending wrist toward forearm or rotating palm down

Weakness

Reduced grip strength and difficulty with daily activities

Numbness/Tingling

In ring and little fingers (ulnar nerve involvement)

Elbow Stiffness

Difficulty fully straightening the elbow

Common Causes

Golf swing

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Weightlifting

Throwing sports

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Rock climbing

The Nerve Connection

Ulnar Nerve Involvement

The ulnar nerve runs directly behind the medial epicondyle-the same bone where golfer's elbow occurs. Inflammation from the tendon damage can irritate this nerve, causing numbness and tingling in the ring and little fingers. This is called cubital tunnel syndrome.

We Treat Both Conditions

Dr. Buchheit uses ultrasound to evaluate both the tendons AND the ulnar nerve during your examination. If nerve involvement is present, we can treat both the tendon damage and perform nerve hydrodissection to free the compressed nerve.

Our Treatment Approach

A comprehensive protocol that addresses both tendon damage and any nerve involvement.

1

Comprehensive Ultrasound

Tendons + Nerve Evaluation

Dr. Buchheit uses diagnostic ultrasound to visualize the medial epicondyle tendons AND the ulnar nerve. This identifies tendon damage, tears, or calcification-and determines if the nerve is also affected.

2

Targeted Regenerative Treatment

Heal the Source

Ultrasound-guided injection of regenerative therapies directly into the damaged tendon promotes natural healing. If nerve involvement is present, hydrodissection can be performed in the same session.

3

Rehabilitation Program

Strengthen and Prevent

A structured exercise program strengthens the wrist flexors and prevents recurrence. Eccentric exercises are particularly effective for tendon healing.

Wrist Flexion Eccentrics

Slowly lower a weight with palm up, lift with other hand

Grip Strengthening

Progressive resistance to rebuild grip without pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, the vast majority of golfer's elbow cases heal without surgery. Regenerative therapies like PRP combined with targeted exercises have shown excellent results for medial epicondylitis.

Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) affects the tendons on the INSIDE of the elbow and involves wrist flexion. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) affects the OUTSIDE of the elbow and involves wrist extension. Both respond well to regenerative treatment.

No, golfer's elbow can occur from any repetitive gripping or wrist flexion activity- throwing, climbing, weightlifting, typing, or using hand tools. Many people with golfer's elbow have never played golf.

The ulnar nerve runs very close to the medial epicondyle. Inflammation from golfer's elbow can irritate this nerve, causing numbness or tingling in the ring and little fingers. This is called cubital tunnel syndrome and we can treat both conditions.

With regenerative treatment and rehabilitation, most patients see significant improvement within 6-12 weeks. Complete recovery typically takes 3-6 months depending on severity.

Related Conditions

Heal Your Golfer's Elbow-Not Just the Pain

Find out if PRP or regenerative treatment is right for your golfer's elbow. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Buchheit today.