Golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylopathy is a type of tendinopathy with pain present on the inside of the elbow. It is the most common cause of medial (inside) elbow pain, the condition comes on gradually over time and pain is caused by inflammation of the tendons connecting your forearm to the elbow.
The muscles and tendons around the elbow area become inflamed due to repeated movement which puts stress on them and causes damage. You use your elbow a lot and while most movements won’t cause any pain certain gripping movements such as swinging a golf club can be quite painful.
It is generally seen in people aged 35 to 55 years old, but despite its name, golfer’s elbow doesn’t only affect people who play golf. As it is an overuse injury, anyone playing a sport that involves a lot of elbow use can be prone to this condition. This includes athletes who participate in throwing sports, weightlifting, tennis and other racquet sports.
People who have physical jobs with repetitive arm use, lifting and forearm activity such as carpentry also have a risk of developing this type of injury.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Tenderness and pain felt on the inside of the elbow is an indicator you may be suffering from a golfer’s elbow. The pain can sometimes extend down the inner side of the forearm. Some of the common symptoms can include:
- Pain worsening when trying to grip things.
- Numbness or tingling in the fingers.
- Weakness in the wrist or hand.
- Stiffness in the elbow.
- Symptoms gradually worsening over a period of time.
It is important to point out that not all pain on the inside of the elbow is from golfer’s elbow, which is why it is advised to obtain an accurate diagnosis from an experienced physiotherapist. The physios at Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy in St Kilda, Essendon or Blackburn can determine the specific cause of your elbow pain.
Physiotherapy Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow
Following a diagnosis of golfer’s elbow your physio will recommend the best treatment options and begin straight away. The earlier this injury is treated the faster the recovery and a return to daily activities. The severity of your injury will determine the most suitable methods of treatment, with physios often recommending a combination of the below:
Ice Pack
Using an ice pack to numb the affected area can help ease pain and reduce swelling and inflammation. Initially, use an ice pack wrapped in a damp towel on the elbow for 15-20 minutes every 4 hours.
Elbow Support
Sometimes using an elbow brace or tape can help with your symptoms as the pressure of the strap can reduce pain and load on the muscles attached to the elbow. Strapping the area is useful in the short-term and can help reduce the risk of making the injury worse.
Modification of Certain Activities
Any activities that aggravate the elbow and cause pain should be avoided so modifying the way you do certain things will rest the injured tendons and allow them to heal. Complete rest is not recommended however, and your physio can advise ways to use your elbow safely.
Pain Medication
If needed, you can use anti-inflammatory medication to relieve pain and inflammation. It is vital to only take the recommended dose and is best to discuss this option with your GP or physiotherapist.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises
If your pain level is manageable your physio will focus on appropriate exercises to strengthen the elbow area and aid with recovery. Physiotherapists recommend exercises such as:
- Wrist Strengthening: Isometric wrist strengthening is carried out while seated, with your forearm on a table with your palm facing up. Press your other palm into your affected hand and move the injured hand upwards as you create resistance. Continue for 10 seconds then release, repeating 5 times.
- Wrist Flexion and Extension: Resisted wrist flexion and extension is also carried out in a seated position. Holding a small weight (0.5-1kg) in your affected arm, place your forearm on a table with your hand hanging over the edge with your palm facing down. Slowly lower your hand and then raise it back up, completing 1-3 sets of 15 reps.
It is unfortunate that tendons can take several weeks or even months to fully recover. A key point is that they don’t like change, so it takes time to build them up to be able to tolerate high physical levels. If you stick to your rehab plan with the assistance of your physiotherapist, you will ensure a safe and effective recovery.
Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy has staff who are experienced with elbow injuries and will give you an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan so you can return to the activities you love pain free. If you suspect you have a golfer’s elbow, give them a call or book online for an assessment and get on the road to recovery.
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