The elbow is a complex joint where three bones, the humerus (upper arm bone), ulna, and radius (forearm bones) come together. Several muscles and tendons attach on the inner side of the elbow, at the medial epicondyle which help to control movement in the wrist and fingers.

In golfer’s elbow, the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle become irritated or damaged, often due to overuse. Over time, repetitive stress can cause microscopic tears in the tendon, leading to inflammation, tenderness, stiffness, and pain along the inner elbow.

Golfer’s elbow typically results from repetitive motions that involve gripping, wrist flexion, or forearm rotation. Common causes include:

• Sports-related activities: Golf, tennis (especially with improper technique), throwing sports, and weightlifting can place significant stress on the inner elbow.
• Occupational activities: Jobs that require repeated wrist flexion, gripping tools, or lifting heavy objects can also contribute, including construction, carpentry, and plumbing.
• Improper technique or equipment: Poor form during athletic activities or using equipment that is too heavy or not ergonomically suited can increase strain on the elbow tendons.
• Sudden increase in activity: Jumping into an intense workout or sport without adequate conditioning or warm-up can overload the tendons.

Patients may feel a dull or sharp pain on the inner elbow, weakness in the wrist and hand, stiffness in the elbow joint, or numbness and tingling extending into the fingers (particularly the ring and little fingers).

At Vitality Orthopedics and Biologics, conservative management is the first line of treatment. Most cases improve without surgery when addressed early and managed appropriately. Our non-surgical therapies include:

• Activity modification: Avoiding aggravating movements and allowing time for tendon healing are essential steps. Temporary rest from sports or work-related tasks may be recommended.
• Bracing or splinting: Wearing a counterforce brace or wrist splint can reduce tension on the affected tendons during movement and promote recovery.
• Physical therapy: Guided exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles, stretch the tendons, and improve flexibility and joint mechanics can reduce pain and prevent recurrence.
• Ice and anti-inflammatory treatments: Application of ice packs and short-term use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can alleviate pain and swelling.

For patients who do not respond to conservative care or who wish to explore advanced biological approaches, Vitality Orthopedics and Biologics offers a comprehensive range of regenerative therapies designed to stimulate healing and tissue repair:

Red light therapy

Also known as low-level light therapy (LLLT), red light therapy uses wavelengths of red and near-infrared light to increase blood flow, reduce inflammation, and stimulate cellular repair in soft tissues. It is non-invasive and can be used in conjunction with other therapies.

Laser therapy

High-intensity laser therapy penetrates deeper tissues to promote increased circulation, collagen production, and pain relief. This modality is helpful in accelerating recovery of injured tendons in medial epicondylitis.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)

This treatment involves breathing 100% oxygen in a pressurized environment, which enhances oxygen delivery to damaged tissues, reduces inflammation, and promotes healing at a cellular level. HBOT may support recovery in chronic cases of tendon injury.

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections

PRP therapy involves using the patient’s own blood to isolate and concentrate platelets rich in growth factors, which are then injected into the affected tendon to stimulate natural healing processes. PRP has shown promise in reducing pain and improving tendon function in chronic golfer’s elbow.

Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC)

BMAC is a form of stem cell therapy that uses stem cells derived from the patient’s own bone marrow. These cells support tissue regeneration and have anti-inflammatory properties. BMAC is often used when tissue degeneration is more advanced or when healing has stalled.

BPC-157 peptide therapy

BPC-157 is a synthetic peptide derived from a protective compound found in the stomach. It has been shown in animal studies to accelerate tendon and ligament healing by promoting angiogenesis (formation of new blood vessels), reducing inflammation, and supporting cellular repair. As an emerging therapy, BPC-157 is used under medical supervision in regenerative orthopedic practices.

Patients experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow should seek care early to prevent further tendon degeneration. At Vitality Orthopedics and Biologics, we tailor each treatment plan based on the patient’s activity level, duration of symptoms, and specific tendon involvement. Diagnostic tools such as ultrasound or MRI may be used to assess tendon integrity and rule out other conditions.

Patients should expect a gradual return to activities with a structured rehabilitation plan. Combining regenerative therapies with physical therapy and ergonomic adjustments helps support long-term recovery. Education on proper technique, warm-up routines, and strengthening exercises is also important in preventing recurrence.