Golf elbow
Table of contents
Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that occurs when the muscle attachments on the inside of your elbow become irritated or inflamed. Despite the name, you don't have to play golf to develop the condition. It can also develop from other activities that involve frequent bending and twisting of your wrist, such as work, crafts, sports, or household chores. If you notice pain on the inside of your elbow when you lift, grip, or twist your forearm, you may have golfer's elbow.
Symptoms of golfer's elbow
Golfer's elbow often comes on gradually. You may first feel a dull ache on the inside of your elbow when you strain your hand or bend your wrist. The pain may worsen over time if you continue to put pressure on the area.
Common symptoms are:
- Pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, especially when pressure is applied to the muscle attachment.
- Stiffness and pain when you bend your wrist, lift or rotate your forearm.
- Feeling weak and having a poor grip when trying to hold something, such as a milk carton, a hammer or a racket.
- The pain can sometimes radiate to the forearm.
- Some experience increased pain in the morning or after prolonged rest.
- It can become difficult to perform everyday tasks that require bending and grasping.
If you experience similar pain on the outside of your elbow, it is usually tennis elbow instead.
Causes of golfer's elbow
The cause is usually repetitive and monotonous movements that overload the muscles and their attachments on the inside of the elbow. The condition affects many people who have jobs that involve lifting, carrying, screwing or using the hand and forearm muscles a lot. Golfers, craftsmen, painters, carpenters, but also exercisers and athletes who play tennis, padel or badminton are particularly at risk.
Incorrect technique, too heavy a load or too rapid an increase in training intensity also increases the risk. Prolonged computer work with poor ergonomics can also cause golfer's elbow. It is also common for the problem to occur after unusual movements, for example when changing to a new sport or unexpectedly lifting heavy weights.
Treatment for golfer's elbow
The most important part of treatment is giving your elbow and the muscle attachment time to heal. This means resting or modifying the movements that cause the pain. You don't always have to stop all activities, but reduce the load and avoid the movements that hurt the most.
To relieve pain, you can use cold, such as an ice pack wrapped in a thin towel, for a few minutes at a time. In some cases, over-the-counter painkillers help. Using an elbow brace or a special epicondylitis band placed just below the elbow can also relieve the area and reduce discomfort. These can be found at rehcore.com, among others.
As the pain begins to subside, it is a good idea to start with simple exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve mobility. A physiotherapist can show you how to do the exercises correctly and give individual advice based on your situation. Stretching the forearm muscles is often an important part of rehabilitation.
It is important to return to strenuous activities gradually and listen to your body's signals. If you are in a lot of pain or if your symptoms do not improve within a couple of months despite self-care, you should seek medical attention for further investigation and treatment. In rare cases, cortisone injections or surgery may be necessary, but this is uncommon.
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How long does it take to recover from golfer's elbow?
Often, symptoms improve within a few weeks to months with proper rest, weight-bearing, and exercises. However, long-term or more severe cases may take longer.
Can I continue to exercise even though I have golfer's elbow?
Yes, but adapt your training and avoid the exercises that cause the most pain. Focus on pain-free movements and strengthening the muscles of the forearm.
When should I use elbow pads or epicondylitis tape?
When working or doing activities that put strain on the elbow, the protection can relieve pressure and reduce pain. It is especially helpful during the acute phase.
What do I do if the discomfort doesn't go away?
If self-care, rest and exercises do not have any effect after a few months, you should contact a physiotherapist or doctor for further help and possible other treatment.
