GOLFER'S ELBOW INJECTION
Understanding Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a painful condition affecting the inner side of the elbow. Despite the name, it doesn’t just affect golfers — any repetitive gripping, lifting, or throwing action can lead to this injury.
At Alton Pain Clinic, our clinicians offer ultrasound-guided cortisone injections & PRP Injections to accurately target inflammation and provide relief from persistent elbow pain associated with Golfer’s Elbow. This minimally invasive approach helps reduce pain and improve arm function.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Symptoms typically develop gradually and may include:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
- Discomfort when gripping, lifting, or flexing the wrist
- Stiffness or tightness in the elbow
- Weak grip strength
- Pain radiating down the forearm
Symptoms often worsen with activities involving repetitive wrist flexion or gripping, such as lifting shopping bags, gardening, or playing racquet sports.
Treatment We Offer
Ultrasound-Guided Cortisone Injections for Golfer’s Elbow
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections are a precise and effective treatment for Golfer’s Elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis.
What the Procedure Involves
- A mixture of corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory) and local anaesthetic is injected directly into the inflamed tendon area.
- The injection is delivered under ultrasound guidance, ensuring pinpoint accuracy and avoiding surrounding structures.
- The procedure is done in-clinic and usually takes only a few minutes.
Benefits of Ultrasound Guided Cortisone Injections for Golfer's Elbow
- Reduces inflammation and pain at the source
- Allows for quicker return to activity
- May help improve function and strength
- Minimally invasive and non-surgical
Mechanism of Action
The corticosteroid component of the injection acts by dampening the body’s inflammatory response, which is the key driver of pain in Golfer’s Elbow. The local anaesthetic provides immediate but temporary pain relief by blocking nerve signals in the area.
The result is a reduction in pain and swelling, allowing the damaged tendon to begin healing.
Ultrasound-Guided PRP Injections for Golfer’s Elbow
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections offer a regenerative treatment option, especially in chronic or degenerative cases.
Mechanism of Pain Relief of PRP Injections
- Delivers growth factors directly to the damaged tendon
- Stimulates tissue repair and regeneration
- Promotes collagen production and tendon strengthening
- Helps regulate chronic inflammation
Benefits of PRP Injections
- Supports long-term healing of the tendon
- Improves overall tissue quality and resilience
- Reduces pain gradually over time
- May lower the risk of recurrence
- Enhances strength and functional recovery
Your Care Pathway with us
- To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
- Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
- Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.
Difference Between Tennis Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow
While the symptoms can seem similar, the key difference between tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow lies in the location of pain and muscles affected:
- Tennis Elbow (lateral epicondylitis) affects the outer part of the elbow and involves the extensor tendons used in wrist extension.
- Golfer’s Elbow affects the inner part of the elbow and involves the flexor tendons used in wrist and finger flexion.
Accurate diagnosis is essential to ensure the right treatment plan, which is why our clinicians at Alton Pain Clinic conduct a thorough assessment before any intervention.
Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow is primarily caused by overuse or repetitive strain. Common contributing factors include:
- Repetitive activities like golf, racket sports, weightlifting, or manual work
- Improper technique during sport or work tasks
- Sudden increase in activity intensity
- Weak shoulder or wrist muscles leading to overcompensation
Risk Factors
You may be at increased risk of developing Golfer’s Elbow if you:
- Are aged between 40 and 60
- Regularly perform gripping or lifting motions
- Use poor form or technique during exercise or sport
- Work in manual labour, construction, or similar professions
- Have a history of tendon injuries
Diagnosis and Assessment
At Alton Pain Clinic, diagnosis begins with a clinical evaluation, which may include:
- Detailed history of symptoms and activity levels
- Physical examination, focusing on movement, strength, and tenderness
- Ultrasound imaging to confirm tendon changes and guide treatment
Ultrasound provides real-time visualisation of the affected tendon, helping to ensure precision in both diagnosis and injection therapy.
Golfer’s Elbow Recovery Time
Golfer’s Elbow recovery time varies depending on the severity and duration of the condition. With early intervention and appropriate treatment, many individuals see improvement within 6 to 12 weeks. However, chronic cases may take longer.
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injections can accelerate the recovery process by calming inflammation and allowing the tendon to heal more effectively, especially when combined with activity modification and rehabilitative exercises.
Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic?
- Expert clinicians with a focus on musculoskeletal pain management
- Ultrasound-guided injection techniques for maximum precision
- Comprehensive assessment and treatment planning
- Modern clinic environment with a personalised approach
Conclusion
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer ultrasound-guided cortisone and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections for treating Golfer’s Elbow, ensuring precise and effective delivery to the affected tendon. Our focus on advanced imaging techniques allows for accurate targeting, helping to maximise treatment outcomes while minimising discomfort.
Whether you require the anti-inflammatory benefits of cortisone for short-term relief or the regenerative effects of PRP to support long-term tendon healing, our clinicians tailor each treatment to your individual needs. At Alton Pain Clinic, we provide personalised, minimally invasive solutions to help manage pain, restore function, and support your recovery.