Red flags & when to go in person for Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)

Audience: adult

Medial epicondylitis, often called golfer’s elbow, is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. It usually happens because of overuse or repetitive movements, especially those involving gripping or wrist flexing. Many people manage symptoms at home with rest, ice, and gentle exercises. Telemedicine can help you understand your symptoms, guide self-care, and decide if you need in-person care. However, some signs mean you should see a healthcare provider in person promptly. These include severe pain, numbness, weakness, or sudden swelling. This guide explains when to seek in-person care, what telemedicine can and cannot do, and how to prepare for your tele-visit. Remember, this information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical evaluation and treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or worsening elbow pain not relieved by rest or medication — seek prompt in-person care.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in fingers, hand, or wrist — requires urgent evaluation.
• Sudden swelling, redness, warmth, or fever indicating possible infection — go to emergency or urgent care.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessing symptoms and medical history related to medial epicondylitis.
• Providing guidance on home care, rest, ice, and exercises.
• Advising when to seek in-person care based on symptom severity.
• Answering questions about the condition and self-management.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical exams, including strength and range of motion tests.
• Ordering or interpreting imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs.
• Administering injections or physical therapy treatments.
• Diagnosing or treating complications such as nerve damage or infections.

What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

Medial epicondylitis is inflammation or irritation of the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the inside of the elbow. It often results from repetitive wrist and finger motions, such as swinging a golf club, lifting, or typing. Symptoms usually include pain and tenderness on the inner elbow, which may worsen with certain movements.

Common Symptoms and When to Watch Closely

Typical symptoms include:

If symptoms improve with rest and home care, telemedicine can help guide your recovery. However, watch for warning signs that need in-person evaluation.

Red Flags: When to Seek In-Person Care

Seek immediate in-person medical care if you experience:

These signs may indicate complications or other serious conditions requiring prompt evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Through telemedicine, healthcare providers can:

Telemedicine offers convenient access to guidance without needing to travel.

Limitations of Telemedicine for Golfer’s Elbow

Telemedicine cannot:

If your symptoms suggest a more serious problem, an in-person visit is necessary.

Preparing for Your Telemedicine Visit

To get the most from your tele-visit:

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Write down your symptoms, including when they started and what makes them better or worse.
• Prepare to show your elbow and wrist on camera during the visit if possible.
• List all medications, supplements, or treatments you are currently using.
• Have a pen and paper ready to take notes during the visit.
• Ensure a quiet, well-lit space for your telemedicine appointment.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the self-care advice provided by your healthcare provider.
• Use ice and rest the affected arm as recommended.
• Perform any prescribed exercises gently and regularly.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or worsening.
• Schedule an in-person visit if red flags or worsening symptoms develop.

FAQs

Can golfer’s elbow heal without surgery?

Yes, most cases of medial epicondylitis improve with rest, physical therapy, and home care without needing surgery.

How long does it take to recover from golfer’s elbow?

Recovery time varies but often takes several weeks to a few months with proper care and avoiding activities that worsen symptoms.

When should I see a doctor in person?

See a healthcare provider in person if you have severe pain, numbness, weakness, sudden swelling, or signs of infection.

Can I continue to play sports with golfer’s elbow?

It’s best to rest and avoid activities that cause pain until symptoms improve to prevent worsening the condition.

What treatments might a doctor recommend in person?

In-person treatments can include physical therapy, braces, medications, injections, or in rare cases, surgery.

Sources

1. Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow) — MedlinePlus | U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) — Mayo Clinic.
3. Tennis and Golfer’s Elbow: Prevention and Treatment — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Medial Epicondylitis — Merck Manuals: Consumer Version.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have concerning symptoms or red flags, seek prompt evaluation by a healthcare provider in person.