Overview of Golfer’s Elbow: How it is occured? How is it treated?
While the name might suggest it only affects golfers, Golfer’s Elbow also termed as medial epicondylitis is a condition that can impact anyone who repeatedly uses their forearm muscles, making it an overuse injury. Whether you’re an athlete, a construction worker, or someone who frequently lifts heavy objects, you could be at risk of a golfer’s elbow.
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is a type of tendinopathy or a condition of inflammation of the medial aspect of your elbow where the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the inside of the elbow become inflamed because of either overuse of it or simply any underlying cause. Specifically, it affects the medial epicondyle of your humerus (your upper arm bone), a bony bump on the inner side of the elbow. This is where the tendons of your forearm flexor muscles attach, which help in wrist and finger movements.
Sign & Symptoms
- Sharp pain or tenderness on the inside of your elbow
- Stiffness in the elbow joint
- Weak grip strength
- Pain that radiates along the inner forearm
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers
Common Causes
Repetitive strain is the biggest culprit. Movements that involve forceful or repeated bending, gripping, or twisting of the wrist can stress the tendons over time. Common contributors include:
- Playing golf or such sports with poor technique
- Manual labor (carpentry, plumbing, or painting)
- Lifting weights with poor form
- Frequent use of tools or typing for prolonged periods
Treatment Options
1. Rest and Activity Modification
Avoid or reduce activities that aggravate your symptoms. This doesn’t mean complete immobility, gentle movement is encouraged to prevent stiffness.
2. Ice Therapy
Applying ice to the affected area for a few minutes, at least 3-4 times a day, can be helpful in reducing inflammation and pain in the early stages.
3. Medication
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs (like ibuprofen) may provide temporary relief but should be used cautiously and under guidance.
4. Lifestyle Adjustments
Correcting posture, ergonomics at work, and technique during sports or lifting are vital for long-term prevention.
Physiotherapy Approach to Golfer’s Elbow
1. Pain Relief & Inflammation Control
- Ultrasound therapy
- Myofascial Release (MFR)
- Dry Needling
- Soft Tissue Mobilization
2. Manual Therapy Techniques
- Medial epicondyle cross-friction massage
- Mobilization with Movement (MWM)
- Passive stretching of wrist flexors and pronators
- Neural mobilization if ulnar nerve irritation is suspected
- Joint mobilization for wrist and elbow flexibility
3. Stretching & Strengthening Exercises
- Stretching:
- Wrist flexor stretch (elbow extended, wrist extended, palm up)
- Forearm pronation/supination and extension mobility
- Strengthening:
- Eccentric wrist flexor exercises (e.g., reverse wrist curls with controlled lowering)
- Isometric wrist flexion and pronation in pain-free ranges
- Grip strengthening using therapy putty or soft ball
- Theraband resisted exercises – wrist flexion, pronation, and elbow flexion
- Supination-pronation strengthening with a hammer or bar
4. Bracing & Taping
- Medial elbow strap to offload tendon stress
- Kinesiology taping to assist muscle function and reduce pain
5. Posture & Ergonomics
- Shoulder and scapular strengthening for proximal control
- Correct sitting posture and wrist alignment during tasks
- Tool and grip modifications for better outcome
6. Functional Integration & Return to Activity
- Sport/work-specific training (e.g., racquet grip techniques, lifting posture)
- Progressive load management for activities involving gripping or throwing
- Home exercise plan with gradual advancement for strength and endurance.
Prevention Tips
- Warm up before any activity
- Strengthen your forearm muscles regularly
- Use proper equipment and techniques in sports
- Don’t ignore early signs of discomfort
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
Final Thoughts
Golfer’s elbow may be frustrating, but with timely care and the right treatment approach, most people make a full recovery. If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain, don’t push through it, consult a healthcare provider or physiotherapist to get started on the path to recovery.
