Golfers Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
If you're experiencing inner elbow pain before, during, or after a round of golf you may have Golfer's Elbow!
Golfer’s elbow,
or medial epicondylitis, is an overuse injury involving the muscles
used to flex the wrist. These muscles affect the medial epicondyle on
the inside of the elbow and include the pronator teres, flexor carpi
radialis, flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor digitorum superficialis, and
palmaris longus. The anterior forearm contains several muscles that
are involved with flexing the digits of the hand and flexing
and pronating the
wrist. The tendons of these muscles come together in a common
tendinous sheath, which originates from the medial epicondyle of
the humerus at
the elbow joint. In response to minor injury, this point of insertion
becomes inflamed, causing pain. The condition is referred to as
golfer’s elbow because the tendons are stressed when making
a golf swing, but this condition can develop without playing golf,
making this the most common elbow injury for those whose sport is
grip intensive.
What are the symptoms of Golfers Elbow?
Some or all the following may be present if you are dealing with Golfers elbow:
- Inner elbow pain while gripping, lifting, or flexing the wrist forward
- Inner elbow pain involving twisting movements of the wrist
- Tenderness localized on the inside of the elbow
- Mild swelling and heat can be present
- Stiffness straightening or bending the elbow
What causes Golfers Elbow?
If present while playing golf, an incorrect golf swing or issues with golf club grips can be the culprit, but many other sports or activities can lead to similar symptoms.
Over utilization and repetitive movements involving these muscles, such as typing, computer work, or strenuous activity can elicit symptoms. It can also be triggered by a sudden increase in uncommon activities, like yard work, gardening or Spring cleaning.
What can help with these conditions?
Reducing aggravating activities is key plus making lifestyle changes are key in the recovery process. Try including the following to help reduce symptoms:
- Change activities to reduce pain
- Limit the stress imposed on the tendon by loosening your grip when lifting, driving, or swinging the club
- Avoid painful movements that involve straining the forearm muscles
Sports Injury Treatment at Phase 1 Chiropractic
Phase1 Chiropractic is proud to offer services in Lakewood Ranch, FL and the surrounding communities that can help you heal, recover, and prevent the recurrence of sports injuries, like:
Call or Book Your Appointment with Dr. Lee in Lakewood Ranch to help find relief for your inner elbow pain today!