Understanding Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes discomfort where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the inner side of the elbow. This pain can extend into the forearm and wrist, impacting everyday activities.

Although it shares similarities with tennis elbow, which affects the outer elbow, golfer's elbow is not exclusive to golfers. It can affect anyone who frequently uses their wrists or clenches their fingers, such as tennis players or manual laborers.

With proper rest and treatment, the pain of golfer's elbow doesn't have to sideline you from your favorite activities.

Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow is identified by several key symptoms:

• Pain and Tenderness: Typically felt on the inner side of the elbow, this pain can extend along the inner forearm, intensifying with certain movements.

• Stiffness: The elbow may feel stiff, and making a fist can be painful.

• Weakness: Hands and wrists may feel weak.

• Numbness or Tingling: These sensations can radiate into the fingers, especially the ring and little fingers.

Pain can develop suddenly or gradually and may worsen with specific activities, like swinging a golf club.

When to Seek Medical Help

Consult a doctor if rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers do not alleviate your symptoms. Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your elbow is hot, inflamed, and accompanied by a fever

• You cannot bend your elbow

• Your elbow appears deformed

• You suspect a broken bone

Causes of Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow is caused by damage to the muscles and tendons that control the wrist and fingers, often due to excessive or repeated stress. Contributing factors include improper lifting, throwing, hitting, inadequate warm-up, and poor conditioning.

Activities that can lead to golfer's elbow include:

• Racket Sports: Poor technique, especially with backhand strokes, and equipment that is too small or heavy.

• Throwing Sports: Improper pitching technique in baseball or softball, as well as other sports like football, archery, and javelin throwing.

• Weight Training: Incorrect lifting techniques, such as curling the wrists during bicep exercises.

• Repetitive Occupational Movements: Common in construction, plumbing, and carpentry.

Generally, activities must be performed for more than an hour daily over several days to cause golfer's elbow.

Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase the risk of developing golfer's elbow:

• Being 40 years or older

• Performing repetitive activities for at least two hours daily

• Obesity

• Smoking

Prevention Tips

Preventing golfer's elbow involves several strategies:

• Strengthen Forearm Muscles: Use light weights or squeeze a tennis ball to help your muscles absorb physical stress.

• Stretch Before Activity: Warm up your muscles with walking or jogging, followed by gentle stretches.

• Correct Your Form: Ensure your technique is correct by consulting with an instructor to avoid muscle overload.

• Use Appropriate Equipment: Upgrade to lighter graphite golf clubs or ensure your tennis racket is the right size and weight.

• Lift Properly: Maintain a rigid and stable wrist when lifting to reduce elbow stress.

• Know When to Rest: Avoid overuse and take breaks at the first sign of pain.

By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of developing golfer's elbow and maintain your activity level without discomfort.