Golfer's elbow treatment

Golfer’s elbow - also known as medial epicondylitis - is a condition that causes pain in the forearm and wrist. Unlike tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow is commonly felt on the inside of the forearm.

Golfer’s elbow is caused by damage to the muscles and tendons in your forearm that connect to the bony bump in the elbow. These tendons control wrist and finger movement. The damage that causes golfer’s elbow is usually the result of repetitive movements with improper form.

• Pain in the inside of the forearm
• Numbness or tingling in the affected arm
• Lack of mobility or stiffness in the elbow
• Weakness in the hands or wrists.

Although it is called golfer’s elbow, this condition can be caused by several physical activities. Improper form, or not properly warming up, during throwing, hitting, or weightlifting can lead to or exacerbate the symptoms of golfer’s elbow.

- Tennis: Improper motion used for a backhand swing is one of the most common causes of golfer’s elbow.

- Baseball/ Softball: Improper pitching form can lead to tendon damage and golfer’s elbow.

- Weight training: Exercises that utilize the wrist (such as bicep curls) can lead to tendon damage if performed without proper form.

- Occupational movement: Movements performed frequently in occupations such as construction or carpentry can lead to tendon damage and golfer’s elbow.

Golfer’s elbow rarely occurs suddenly. Movements need to be repeated for over an hour a day several days a week to develop golfer’s elbow. If you are obese, or over the age of 40, you may be at a greater risk of developing golfer’s elbow. To prevent injury, make sure you properly stretch and warm up your muscles before activity. In addition, you might consider strengthening the wrist and forearm muscles through exercises such as squeezing a tennis ball.