Does cortisone injection treat golfer's elbow?

Golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, involves the tendon attachment on the inner side of the elbow. Repeated gripping, wrist bending, throwing, or lifting can make this area sore. An injection may settle local inflammation and provide short-term comfort, but tendon pain is also influenced by how the tendon is loaded. Relief can make everyday tasks easier without proving that the tendon has regained strength. A clinician checks the exact pain location and arm function because nerve irritation and problems inside the elbow can resemble this condition.

Temporarily reduce the movements that reproduce pain, especially forceful gripping and repeated wrist flexion. Do not stop all use of the arm; a physiotherapist can set a graded strengthening plan that starts with manageable loads and progresses as symptoms allow. A brace or changes to tool handles and lifting technique may reduce strain. If an injection is discussed, ask about its place in the plan and how long to modify activity afterward. A return to sport or work should be guided by strength and function, not pain relief alone.

Seek assessment if inner-elbow pain persists, grip strength is falling, or work and sport remain difficult. After an injection, obtain prompt medical advice for increasing redness, warmth, swelling, severe pain, fever, or feeling unwell. Numbness or tingling into the ring and little fingers, sudden weakness, or a traumatic injury with loss of movement should be assessed promptly.

Ask whether the pain is coming from the tendon or a nearby nerve, what rehabilitation should accompany an injection, which loads to avoid, how progress will be measured, and when sport or work can be increased.