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

Audience: pediatric

Medial Epicondylitis, often called Golfer’s Elbow, is a condition where the tendons on the inside of the elbow become sore and inflamed. It can happen in children and teens who use their arms a lot in sports or activities like throwing or swinging. Symptoms usually include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, especially during movement. While many cases improve with rest and simple care, some signs mean it's important to see a healthcare provider in person. This guide helps families understand when to seek in-person care and what can be managed through telemedicine. Remember, this information is for education only and not a diagnosis. Always check with a healthcare professional for personal advice.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Severe or increasing elbow pain not relieved by rest or pain medicine — seek in-person care promptly.
• Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the fingers or hand — this may indicate nerve involvement needing urgent evaluation.
• Swelling, redness, warmth, or fever with elbow pain — possible infection requiring immediate medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial symptom discussion and history taking
• Providing advice on rest, ice, and pain relief
• Guidance on activity modification and gentle exercises
• Monitoring mild symptoms and deciding if in-person care is needed

What telemedicine cannot do

• Physical examination of the elbow
• Imaging tests like X-rays or ultrasound
• Treatment of severe symptoms or complications
• Evaluation of nerve symptoms or suspected infection

What is Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)?

Medial Epicondylitis is a condition where the tendons that connect the muscles of the forearm to the inside of the elbow become irritated or inflamed. This often happens from repeated use or strain, especially in activities like golf, baseball, or throwing sports. Children and teens may feel pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow, which can worsen with movement.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

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Symptoms often develop gradually and may improve with rest.

When to Seek In-Person Care

It is important to see a healthcare provider in person if your child has:

These signs may indicate a more serious problem that needs prompt evaluation.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Telemedicine can be useful for:

However, a physical exam and sometimes imaging tests require an in-person visit.

Tips for Managing Symptoms at Home

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If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical advice.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Have a list of your child's symptoms and when they started.
• Note any activities that make the pain better or worse.
• Prepare to describe any injuries or falls related to the elbow pain.
• Have a way to show the affected elbow on camera if possible.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the care advice given during the tele-visit.
• Use rest, ice, and pain relief as recommended.
• Watch for any new or worsening symptoms and seek in-person care if red flags appear.
• Schedule an in-person visit if symptoms do not improve or if advised.
• Keep track of symptom changes to report at follow-up.

FAQs

Can my child play sports if they have golfer’s elbow?

It’s best to rest the arm and avoid activities that cause pain until symptoms improve. Returning to sports too soon may make the condition worse.

How long does it take to get better?

Recovery can take several weeks to months depending on the severity. Following care advice and avoiding strain helps healing.

Is surgery ever needed for medial epicondylitis?

Surgery is rare and usually only considered if symptoms do not improve after months of treatment.

Can a telemedicine visit diagnose golfer’s elbow?

Telemedicine can help assess symptoms and guide care but a full diagnosis often needs a physical exam in person.

What can I do to prevent golfer’s elbow in my child?

Encourage proper technique in sports, regular stretching, and avoiding repetitive strain to reduce risk.

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 Elbow and Golfer’s Elbow — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4. Medial Epicondylitis — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If your child has any concerning symptoms or red flags, please seek evaluation by a healthcare professional in person promptly.