Golfer's Elbow Treatment

Golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylitis is the inflammation and swelling of tendon tissues (tendonitis) that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow, at the end of the inner elbow. It is vital to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and management can reduce the complications of golfer’s elbow.

What Causes Golfer's Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow is primarily caused by repetitive overuse of the forearm muscles, typically due to sports (e.g. Golf) that involve the upper limbs, weight lifting or forceful, repetitive occupational movements such as construction or carpentry.

It is vital to understand your symptoms and seek medical treatment as soon as possible, as early diagnosis and management can reduce the complications of golfer’s elbow.

What Are the Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow?

Common symptoms of golfer’s elbow include:

How Is Golfer’s Elbow Diagnosed?

Your doctor may review your medical and exercise history, as well as conduct a physical examination to check for pain, tenderness or elbow stiffness.

Further imaging tests, such as ultrasound or MRI scans may be required to confirm a diagnosis or to eliminate other possible injuries such as tendon tears or fractures.

Finding Relief from Golfer’s Elbow

If golfer’s elbow is starting to affect how you work, play sports, or manage everyday tasks, it may be time to take a closer look at what is causing the discomfort. Simple movements like gripping, lifting, or even typing can become more noticeable when the condition progresses.

During a consultation, Dr Bryan Tan will assess your symptoms, daily activities, and how your elbow responds to movement before recommending a suitable approach. Depending on your condition, this may include non-surgical care or a more targeted golfer’s elbow treatment plan aimed at improving function and reducing strain on the affected area.

Treatment Options for Golfer’s Elbow

Managing golfer’s elbow focuses on reducing strain on the tendon, easing discomfort, and supporting gradual recovery. The approach depends on how severe the symptoms are and how the condition affects daily activities.

Most cases can be managed without surgery, especially when symptoms are identified early. Non-surgical care aims to allow the tendon to rest and recover while improving strength and flexibility over time.

Rest and activity modification to reduce repetitive strain on the elbow
Ice application and compression to help manage discomfort and swelling
Use of anti-inflammatory medication where appropriate to ease symptoms
Physiotherapy to improve flexibility, strengthen surrounding muscles, and support movement
Elbow supports or braces to reduce tension on the tendon during activity
Injection-based options, such as corticosteroid or platelet-rich plasma, in selected cases

This form of golfer’s elbow treatment is often introduced in stages, with adjustments made based on how the elbow responds over time.

Surgery may be considered when symptoms persist despite a period of structured non-surgical care. The procedure generally involves removing damaged tissue and addressing areas of tendon degeneration that may be contributing to ongoing discomfort.

Surgical treatment is usually discussed when pain continues to interfere with daily function, and when other approaches have not provided sufficient relief. A detailed assessment helps determine whether this step is appropriate based on the individual’s condition.

How to Reduce the Risk of Golfer’s Elbow

Preventing golfer’s elbow involves managing how the forearm muscles and tendons are used during daily activities and repetitive movements. Small adjustments in technique, workload, and recovery can help reduce strain on the inner elbow over time.

Warm up before sports or repetitive tasks to prepare the muscles and tendons
Use proper technique during activities such as golf, weightlifting, or manual work
Avoid sudden increases in activity intensity or duration
Take regular breaks during repetitive tasks to reduce continuous strain
Strengthen forearm and wrist muscles through guided exercises
Stretch the forearm muscles to maintain flexibility and reduce tension
Use appropriate equipment, such as correctly sized grips or tools
Address early discomfort promptly before it progresses into persistent pain

Being mindful of these habits can help lower the likelihood of developing symptoms and support better long-term elbow function.

Additional Questions About Golfer’s Elbow Treatment

Is golfer’s elbow serious? When should I visit a doctor?

How long does golfer’s elbow take to heal?

Can golfer’s elbow go away without treatment?

What activities should I avoid with golfer’s elbow?

Is golfer’s elbow the same as tennis elbow?

Can I continue exercising with golfer’s elbow?

Are braces helpful for golfer’s elbow?

When should I consider seeing a specialist?

Billing & Payment

Medisave & Insurance Claims

The following are accredited For Singaporeans, Singapore Permanent Residents and Foreigners. If your insurance is not listed, you will still be able to make claims for eligible procedures! We have experience processing claims from many other various insurance providers. Please contact us if you have any queries.

WHAT’S THE FIRST STEP?

Embark on Your Road to Recovery With Dr Bryan Tan

STEP 1

Book An Appointment
With Dr. Bryan

Our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your registration, ensuring an efficient and hassle-free process for you. Fill up this form to schedule an appointment with Dr. Bryan.

STEP 2

Initial Consultation & Diagnosis of your Condition

During your consultation, Dr. Bryan will evaluate your medical history and the pain you are experiencing. You may also ask Dr. Bryan any questions you may have about your condition.

STEP 3

Treatment & Follow Up Visits With Dr. Bryan

After your consultation with Dr. Bryan, our friendly clinic staff will assist you with your follow-up appointment, and provide you with instructions/information for any prescribed treatment plans from Dr. Bryan.

Take the First Step

Book An Appointment

Leave us a few details and Dr. Bryan will get back to you shortly.

Visit our Clinic

Feel free to visit our clinic and get to meet our specialist.