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What is Golfer's Elbow?
Muscles attach to bones via tendon. When the tendons connecting muscles on the inner of the elbow get damaged or suffer from tiny tears, you may experience discomfort and pain in that area of your body. This is referred to by the name of Golfer’s Elbow (clinically known as medial epicondylitis). In spite of its name, it isn’t just for golfers, and many golfers don’t suffer from it.
It’s often caused by repetitive use in a sport or other hobby or work that requires repetitive movements of the arm. It’s also a kind of tendinitis.
How long will Golfer's Elbow last?
Although golfer’s Elbow can be treated with the use of conservative treatments the healing process could be slow. Depending on the degree of inflammation, it may take between three and six months to heal completely.
In order to ensure that you heal quickly is essential to follow the directions given by your medical professional. Even if it seems like you’re improving when the treatment recommended is scheduled to last for several weeks, you must follow it exactly to the letter.
When you are fully recovered, be sure that you resume your regular activities slowly.
Golfer's Elbow Symptoms
The signs of Golfer’s Elbow may begin slowly or abruptly. However, the most common denominators are:
- A limited range of motion in the elbow because of discomfort
- Weak grip
- Tenderness in the inner part of the elbow
- Pain radiating towards the interior of the forearm
- The sensation of tingling in the fingers
- Elbows feel warm to the feel
Golfer's Elbow Causes & Risk Factors
The primary reason for Golfer’s Elbow is the repetitive motion. But, other elements can increase the risk of developing a Golfer’s Elbow such as:
- Obesity
- Aged over 40
- Smoking
- Repeated motions for a long time every day while doing the job that requires this motion, or participating in games like tennis or squash, racquetball rowing, baseball or (you probably guessed it) golf.
- Use of the wrong equipment for sports (for instance the racket, or a golf club that's too big)
- Weak muscles
- Unsuitable form during sports
Golfer's Elbow Treatment Options
If you start having symptoms, make sure to relieve the arm to prevent the repetitive motion that causes these symptoms. Additionally, apply ice on the elbow’s inside for at least 20 minutes several times per throughout the day. Braces are an excellent idea to lessen the strain placed on injured muscles.
If rest, ice and compression do not help discomfort, then your physician might suggest taking anti-inflammatory medications or cortisone injections along with physical therapy. If treatment options don’t help the problem within two months, you could be suitable for surgery. Be aware that surgery is generally only recommended as the last option.
How to Prevent Golfer's Elbow
There are a variety of ways you can stop golfer’s elbow from occurring. The most important are:
1. Get warm. Arm and hand movements, as well as active stretching will help get your muscles warm to prepare your muscles for physical activities and reduce the chance of injuries.
2. Exercises for strengthening your muscles. The strength of your muscles will allow them to absorb a portion of the stress of repeated movements, which reduces the strain placed on the elbow joint. This can be done with hand exercises or lifting weights that are free.
3. Use adequate equipment. If you use equipment that is too heavy for your needs can put more stress on your joints, muscles and tendons. If you’re not sure of the right equipment to buy, go to a store that specializes in sports or talk to a coach who specializes in the sport you’re looking to play.
4. Rest. Whatever you are while exercising your body requires the right amount of time to rest in order for muscles to recuperate from the repetitive movements.
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