For most patients, non-surgical treatments are the first step and can be very effective. These treatments focus on reducing pain, inflammation, and promoting healing without the need for surgery.

Rest and Activity Modification

The first thing to do is to avoid activities that make the pain worse. This includes things like:

• Lifting weights
• Intense gripping (for example, weightlifting, golfing, or using hand tools)

Giving the elbow a break from these movements can allow the tendons to heal.

Pain Relief and Inflammation Control

• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and swelling in the elbow.
• Ice: Applying ice to the inside of the elbow can reduce inflammation and numb the area to relieve pain.
• Compression Wrap: Wearing a compression band around the elbow can also help decrease swelling and provide support.

Physical Therapy

A key part of treatment is physical therapy, which focuses on strengthening and healing the muscles and tendons around the elbow. Physical therapy typically focuses on:

• Eccentric strengthening exercises: These exercises help promote tendon healing by strengthening the muscles while they lengthen (a very effective way to reduce stress on the tendon).
• Stretching and flexibility exercises to improve the range of motion in the elbow and prevent further injury.

Bracing

Some people with golfer’s elbow benefit from wearing a brace. A counterforce brace or forearm strap can be worn during the day or when doing activities. The brace helps to reduce strain on the tendons, allowing them to heal faster.

If oral NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) are not enough to relieve the pain, injection treatments may be considered. There are two main types of injections:

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone injections are a common treatment for inflammation. They help reduce swelling and pain right at the source, relieving the elbow from inflammation and promoting healing.

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections

PRP injections are used for more severe cases of golfer’s elbow. PRP involves taking a small amount of your own blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting those platelets into the affected tendon. This can help stimulate the healing process and repair damaged tissue.

If non-surgical treatments fail to work after several months, surgery may be necessary. Surgery is typically considered if the condition is severe or if the pain is affecting your ability to perform everyday activities. There are a couple of surgical options available:

Open Debridement

• This surgery involves making a small incision to expose the damaged tissue in the elbow.
• You surgeon will carefully remove the damaged tendon tissue and repair the healthy tissue around it.
• The goal is to reduce pain and help the tendon heal properly.

After surgery, there are important steps to follow to ensure a successful recovery:

• Sling: You may need to wear a sling for 24 hours after surgery to support the arm and reduce strain on the healing tissue.
• Wrist Splint: A wrist splint is typically worn for 4 to 6 weeks. In some cases, an elbow brace may also be used to provide additional support.
• Physical Therapy: Once the initial healing has taken place, physical therapy will be essential. It will help to:
  • Reduce swelling and pain
  • Regain strength in the muscles and tendons around the elbow
  • Improve range of motion and function
• Activity Restrictions: During recovery, you will need to avoid activities that involve gripping or lifting objects greater than 3 pounds. This includes things like opening jars, lifting heavy grocery bags, or carrying heavy objects.