Golfer's Elbow

Overview

Golfer's elbow is a condition that causes pain where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to the bony bump on the inside of your elbow. It is similar to tennis elbow but occurs on the inside of the elbow. The pain might spread into your forearm and wrist and can be caused by excess or repeated stress from activities such as golf, racket sports, throwing sports, weight training, or performing repetitive occupational movements. Symptoms include pain and tenderness, stiffness, and weakness in the hand and wrist. If rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers don't relieve your elbow pain and tenderness, it is recommended to consult a doctor.

Understanding the disease

Symptoms

The symptoms of golfer's elbow are: pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, which can extend along the inner side of the forearm; stiffness in the elbow, making it difficult to make a fist; weakness in the hands and wrists; and numbness or tingling in one or more fingers, usually the ring and little fingers. If these symptoms persist despite rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers, it is best to consult a doctor. Seek immediate medical attention if the elbow is hot and inflamed, you cannot bend it, it looks deformed, or you suspect a broken bone.

Risk Factors

Risk factors for developing golfer's elbow include:

1. Age 40 or older
2. Performing repetitive activity for at least two hours a day
3. Obesity
4. Smoking These factors increase the likelihood of developing golfer's elbow due to the excessive stress placed on the elbow muscles and tendons. Engaging in activities such as baseball, softball, football, archery, and javelin throwing, as well as improper lifting or weight training techniques, can contribute to the condition.

Development

Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, can develop due to excess or repeated stress on the muscles and tendons that control the wrist and fingers. It is not limited to golfers and can be caused by various activities and occupations that involve forceful, repetitive wrist and finger motions. Some common causes include:

1. Racket sports: Improper technique or excessive use of topspin while playing tennis, badminton, or other racket sports can lead to golfer's elbow.
2. Throwing sports: Improper pitching technique in baseball or softball, as well as other throwing sports like football, archery, and javelin throwing, can contribute to the development of golfer's elbow.
3. Weight training: Lifting weights with improper technique, such as curling the wrists during a biceps exercise, can overload the elbow muscles and tendons.
4. Repetitive occupational movements: Activities like construction, plumbing, and carpentry that involve repetitive, forceful motions can increase the risk of developing golfer's elbow.
5. Age: People over 40 are more susceptible to this condition due to age-related declines in muscle strength and flexibility.
6. Poor conditioning and insufficient warmup: Inadequate preparation before engaging in physical activities can increase the risk of developing golfer's elbow. In summary, golfer's elbow can develop due to various activities and occupations that involve repetitive, forceful wrist and finger motions, improper technique, and insufficient preparation.

Assessment and Diagnosis

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of golfer's elbow typically involves a physical exam and medical history evaluation by a healthcare provider. The doctor may apply pressure to the affected area or ask the patient to move their elbow, wrist, and fingers in various ways to assess pain and stiffness. An X-ray may be used to rule out other causes of elbow pain, such as a fracture or arthritis. In rare cases, more comprehensive imaging studies like an MRI might be performed.

Management and Treatment

Prevention

golfer's elbow can be prevented through proper technique, warm-up exercises, and strengthening forearm muscles. Avoiding excessive or repetitive stress on the wrist and fingers, as well as proper equipment and gradual increases in intensity during sports or activities, can also help prevent golfer's elbow.

Home Remedies

Home remedies suggested for golfer's elbow include:

1. Rest: Avoid activities that cause pain or aggravate the condition.
2. Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times a day to reduce pain and inflammation.
3. Over-the-counter pain relievers: Consider taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen or naproxen to help alleviate pain and inflammation.
4. Strengthening exercises: Strengthen your forearm muscles using light weights or squeezing a tennis ball. Simple exercises can help your muscles absorb the energy of sudden physical stress.
5. Stretching: Perform gentle stretches to improve flexibility and reduce stiffness.
6. Wrist brace: Wearing a wrist brace during activities may provide support and help alleviate pressure on the elbow.
7. Proper form and equipment: Ensure you have the correct form and use appropriate equipment to minimize the risk of further strain or injury.
8. Massage: Gentle massage of the affected area may help reduce muscle tension and promote healing. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you experience additional symptoms such as swelling, redness, or numbness in the fingers.

Treatment

The treatments for golfer's elbow, which are also applicable to tennis elbow, include rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers. In some cases, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen forearm muscles and improve flexibility. In more severe cases, a doctor might recommend corticosteroid injections or, in rare cases, surgery. To prevent golfer's elbow, you can perform exercises to strengthen your forearm muscles, stretch before engaging in physical activities, maintain proper form, use appropriate equipment, and avoid overusing your elbow.

Preparing for medical consultation

To prepare for an appointment for golfer's elbow, you should make a list of the following:

1. Your symptoms and when they began.
2. Key medical information, including any other conditions you have and all medications and supplements you're taking, including doses.
3. Your typical daily activity, including how often, long, and hard you play sports or engage in activities that may strain your elbow. Note if you've recently changed the frequency, intensity, or method of your workouts.
4. Recent injuries that could have damaged your elbow. It's also helpful to write down questions to ask your doctor during the appointment to make the most of your time together. Examples of questions include:

• What's the most likely cause of my pain?
• What non-surgical treatments are available for my condition?
• How long should I rest my elbow?
• Will physical therapy be beneficial for me?
• Are there any lifestyle changes or modifications I should make to help manage my symptoms? Remember to bring this list and any relevant medical records to your appointment. This information will help your doctor understand your condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment recommendations.