Pain should not keep you away from the things you love to do. If a painful elbow is causing you to stay away from the golf course or keeping you from playing your best, there are ways to find relief.
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, happens when the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump inside the elbow. It’s a bit like tennis elbow but happens on different sides of the elbow. Tennis elbow is on the outside and golfer’s elbow is on the inside. Both are types of tendonitis.
Symptoms include:
- Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow and can extend up the forearm
- Weakness in hands and wrist
- Stiffness in the elbow itself
- Hurts to make a fist
- Numbness or tingling radiating into one or more fingers, usually the ring finger
The pain can come on suddenly or get worse over time or when you do certain things like swinging a golf club, shaking hands, or flexing your wrist.
How Does It Happen?
Damage to the muscles and tendons that make your wrist and fingers work causes golfer’s elbow. Many times, the elbow muscles will bundle together causing them to glide incorrectly and lose their ability to work independently. This will cause increased stress on the tendons resulting in inflammation and pain.
How Can You Prevent It?
Overuse can cause golfer’s elbow, but so can other things. Here are some ways to prevent it:
- Strengthen the muscles in your forearms by using light weights or squeezing a tennis ball
- Stretch before you play
- Work with a soft tissue therapist
- Make sure your joints are moving correctly
- Check your form
- Use good equipment
- Keep your wrist rigid and stable when lifting anything
- Stop playing when it hurts
When Should You Get Help?
If the pain is keeping you off the course and does not heal by itself after a little rest or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medicines, it may be time for some help. You don’t need to live with pain.
The professionals at B3 Medical can help diagnose and treat your pain. Get in touch with us today.
