how to treat golfers elbow
What Is Golfer’s Elbow ?
Clinically known as medial epicondylitis, it presents with pain and tenderness on the medial epicondyle, the bony knob on the inside of your elbow – little finger side. This injury is not as common as tennis elbow and is more prevalent around age 40 +, equally affecting males and females.
Golfer’s Elbow Symptoms:
The primary symptom is pain on the inner side of the elbow, where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump (medial epicondyle) of the inner elbow.
The area is often tender to the touch, and you may feel discomfort when pressure is applied to the affected spot.
Some individuals experience weakness in their hand and wrist, making it challenging to grip or hold objects.
Pain is typically aggravated by activities that involve gripping, lifting, or repetitive wrist and hand movements, such as golf swings, racquet sports, and lifting heavy objects.
Golfer’s Elbow Causes:
Overuse and repetitive gripping, twisting, and flexing of the forearm muscles.
Activities like golf, tennis, manual labor, and jobs requiring frequent hand and wrist movements.
Tasks involving heavy lifting or forceful gripping.
Incorrect technique during sports or work activities.
More common in adults, especially those aged 30 to 50.
Inadequate forearm muscle strength can increase the risk.
Initial Treatment Steps:
Rest: Give your arm proper rest. Avoid activities that aggravate the condition.
Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours to reduce swelling and pain.
Compression: Use an elastic bandage or a forearm strap to reduce strain on the affected muscles and tendons.
Elevation: Keep the elbow elevated to help reduce swelling.
Medications:
Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Physical Therapy:
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of treatment for Golfer’s Elbow. A therapist can teach you exercises to gradually stretch and strengthen the muscles of the forearm. These might include:
Stretching exercises: Gentle stretching can help relieve tension and pain.
Strengthening exercises: Once the pain subsides, soft strengthening exercises are recommended to rebuild muscle strength.
Advanced Treatment Options:
Ultrasound Therapy: This method uses sound waves to promote healing and decrease inflammation.
Corticosteroid Injections: These may be considered for severe pain, although their effectiveness can diminish with repeated use.
Soft Tissue Massage: Release trigger points and knots, and reduce muscle tightness.
Surgical Treatments:
Surgery may be considered if more conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms after 6 to 12 months. Surgical options include:
Open Surgery: The damaged part of the tendon is removed to relieve symptoms.
Endoscopic Surgery: A minimally invasive procedure using small incisions and specialized tools.
Lifestyle and Home Remedies:
Activity Modification: Avoid activities that involve repetitive wrist and arm motions.
Ergonomic Adjustments: If repetitive motion at work is a factor, ergonomic changes can reduce strain.
Protective Bracing: Use of a brace or forearm strap during activities can help reduce further strain on the area.
Preventing Golfer's Elbow:
Warm-Up Properly: Engage in proper stretching and warm-up before activities.
Strengthening: Regularly perform exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles.
Technique Adjustment: Ensure proper form and technique when engaging in sports or activities that use the forearm muscles extensively.
Wrap-Up:
Managing Golfer’s Elbow effectively involves a combination of rest, therapeutic exercises, medication, and sometimes more advanced treatments. With proper care, most people recover fully and can return to their usual activities without permanent elbow issues.
FAQs:
Q: How long does it take to recover from Golfer’s Elbow? A: Recovery time can vary, but many individuals see improvement within several weeks of consistent treatment.
Q: Can Golfer’s Elbow cause permanent damage? A: If left untreated, Golfer’s Elbow can lead to chronic pain and functional limitations.
Q: Is there a quick fix for Golfer’s Elbow? A: No, treating Golfer’s Elbow usually involves a combination of rest, therapy, and gradual return to activity.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us near Essex Rd in Angel Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
