A procedure to relieve pain and improve function in the elbow by addressing the tendons involved in golfer's elbow.
Through a small incision over the inner elbow, the surgeon removes degenerated portions of the flexor tendon at its attachment and repairs healthy tissue back to the bone where needed. The procedure typically takes thirty to sixty minutes and is usually day surgery.
Surgery is generally considered only after a proper course of non-surgical treatment, including physiotherapy, has not resolved symptoms. Standard preoperative preparation applies, including fasting and arranging transport home.
A brace or splint supports the elbow in the initial period, with pain managed by simple analgesia. Physiotherapy begins once the surgeon confirms healing is progressing, and full recovery, including a return to gripping activities and sport, generally takes several months.
Rehabilitation starts with gentle range-of-motion exercises, progressing to gradual strengthening as the repaired tendon heals. The pace is guided by the surgeon and physiotherapist rather than a fixed schedule, since tendon healing varies between individuals.
Risks include infection, stiffness, and persistent or recurrent pain. Because the ulnar nerve runs close to the surgical site, there is also a small risk of nerve irritation, which can cause temporary tingling in the ring and little fingers.
The aim is to relieve pain and restore grip strength for symptoms that have not responded to a genuine course of non-surgical treatment. Most patients experience good improvement, though as with tennis elbow, tendon healing is gradual and full benefit takes time to develop.
Golfer's elbow release removes degenerated tendon tissue at the inner elbow, aiming to relieve pain that has not settled with a genuine course of non-surgical treatment. Most patients experience good improvement in pain and grip strength, though full recovery is gradual.
