A surgeon discussing Golfer's Elbow Surgery options with a patient in Florida
Treatment/Treatment Details

Golfer's Elbow Surgery

Find lasting relief from chronic inner elbow pain with Golfer's Elbow Surgery. When conservative treatments fail, this procedure removes damaged tendon tissue and restores pain-free function.

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Surgical Treatment for Chronic Medial Epicondylitis

Golfer's Elbow Surgery treats golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) when conservative treatments have failed. The procedure removes the damaged, degenerative tendon tissue from the flexor-pronator muscle group where it attaches to the medial epicondyle of the elbow.

Similar to tennis elbow surgery but on the opposite side of the elbow, this procedure addresses chronic tendon degeneration. Surgery is typically considered after 6-12 months of failed conservative care.

At Mountain Spine & Orthopedics, our surgeons evaluate the extent of tendon damage and assess for associated ulnar nerve compression, which may need to be addressed at the same time.

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Who Needs Golfer's Elbow Surgery?

  • Patients with persistent medial elbow pain lasting more than 6-12 months despite conservative treatment
  • Individuals who have failed physical therapy, bracing, and activity modification
  • Those who have not responded to corticosteroid or PRP injections
  • Patients with significant tendon damage visible on imaging
  • Individuals whose elbow pain significantly limits work, sports, or daily activities
  • Those with concurrent ulnar nerve symptoms that need surgical attention

What Conditions does Golfer's Elbow Surgery Help Ease?

This procedure may help with:

Carpal Tunnel SyndromeArthritisRheumatoid ArthritisTennis ElbowTrigger FingerCubital Tunnel Syndrome
Surgeon performing golfer's elbow release procedure

The Golfer's Elbow Surgery Procedure

  1. Surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under regional or general anesthesia
  2. A small incision is made over the medial epicondyle on the inner elbow
  3. The damaged, degenerative portion of the flexor-pronator tendon origin is identified
  4. Diseased tissue is carefully excised while preserving healthy tendon
  5. If ulnar nerve compression is present, the nerve may be decompressed or transposed
  6. The tendon is repaired if needed, and the incision is closed
  7. The arm is placed in a sling or soft dressing for initial comfort

Benefits of Golfer's Elbow Surgery

  • Definitive treatment for chronic golfer's elbow unresponsive to conservative care
  • Removes damaged, degenerative tendon tissue causing inner elbow pain
  • Allows simultaneous treatment of ulnar nerve compression if present
  • High success rate with significant pain relief in 80-90% of patients
  • Restores ability to perform sports and daily activities without pain

Recovery from Golfer's Elbow Surgery

Recovery Timeline: 3-6 Months for Full Recovery

Recovery from golfer's elbow surgery follows a similar timeline to tennis elbow surgery:

Weeks 1-2: Rest and wound healing. Ice, elevation, and gentle finger motion.

Weeks 2-6: Progressive range of motion exercises. Light activities resume.

Weeks 6-12: Gradual strengthening begins. Return to desk work and light duties.

Months 3-6: Progressive return to sports. Full recovery and strength restoration. If ulnar nerve transposition was performed, arm immobilization may be longer initially.

Related Hand, Wrist & Elbow Treatments

Explore other hand, wrist & elbow treatment options:

Carpal Tunnel Release SurgeryPercutaneous Carpal Tunnel ReleaseTrigger Finger ReleaseCubital Tunnel SurgeryTennis Elbow SurgeryElbow ArthroscopyWrist ArthroscopyWrist Fracture Surgery

Frequently Asked Questions

Is golfer's elbow surgery similar to tennis elbow surgery?

Yes, the procedures are similar but on opposite sides of the elbow. Golfer's elbow surgery addresses the medial (inner) side, while tennis elbow surgery addresses the lateral (outer) side. Both involve removing damaged tendon tissue.

What is recovery like after golfer's elbow surgery?

Recovery takes 3-6 months for full return to activities. Early recovery focuses on wound healing and gentle motion. Strengthening begins around 6 weeks. Sports and heavy activities resume at 3-6 months based on strength recovery.

Will the ulnar nerve be addressed during golfer's elbow surgery?

Your surgeon will evaluate for cubital tunnel syndrome (ulnar nerve compression). If present, the nerve may be decompressed or transposed during the same surgery to address both problems.

When can I return to golf after golfer's elbow surgery?

Return to golf typically takes 4-6 months. Chipping and putting may begin around 3 months; full swing practice at 4 months; competitive play by 5-6 months. Your surgeon and therapist will guide progression.

What is the success rate of golfer's elbow surgery?

Success rates are similar to tennis elbow surgery, with 80-90% of patients achieving significant pain relief. Complete recovery of strength may take up to a year in some cases.

Schedule a Consultation Today

Chronic inner elbow pain limiting your golf game or daily activities? Schedule a consultation with our elbow specialists at Mountain Spine & Orthopedics. We offer same-day and next-day appointments to discuss your treatment options.

Locations Offering Evaluation

Our board-certified specialists offer golfer's elbow surgery evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.

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