Aiveen Lavery • Oct 16, 2020

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s Elbow

Introduction

The elbow is one of the most stable articulations in the body. The bone structures, the joint capsule and the medial and lateral ligaments allow motion and provide this high level of stability. Overuse injuries are common around this joint and are likely to involve the tendon on either the outside (lateral) or inside (medial) of the joint. This is often referred to as either tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow. Although tennis elbow is much more common, golfer’s elbow can provide similar levels of pain and impairment. It is known as an overuse injury and is related to continued or repetitive wrist movements and normally develops gradually over time.

Presentation and symptoms

Golfer’s elbow is characterized by pain on the bony point on the inside of the elbow (medial epicondyle) which may refer into the forearm. Symptoms are usually aggravated through any dexterous tasks or when bending or rotating the wrist against resistance. Examples include turning a door knob, shaking hands, swinging a golf club or tennis racquet and lifting weights.

Treatment

As with all tendinopathies, education, load reduction and a strengthening programme is important. Relative rest, ice and NSAIDs can be used which can help to provide short term pain relief. If you are involved in golf or tennis, it may be worth considering your swing and stroke mechanics. These can be modified to help deload the painful area and facilitate a pain free return to full sport. Other forms of treatment may include soft tissue release, joint mobilization, dry needling and shockwave therapy.

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