Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. Despite its name, golfer’s elbow can affect individuals who do not play golf, as it is often caused by repetitive forearm motions and overuse of the wrist flexor muscles. The condition primarily affects the tendons that attach to the bony prominence on the inner side of the elbow.
Managing golfer’s elbow involves a comprehensive approach to reduce pain, promote healing, and restore function. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment process, helping individuals alleviate symptoms, improve strength and flexibility, and prevent reoccurrence.
The treatment of golfer’s elbow typically involves following the 5 stages of rehab:
- Pain management: The initial focus is on managing pain and reducing inflammation in the affected area. Physiotherapists employ various techniques such as manual therapy, including soft tissue massage and joint mobilization, to alleviate pain. They may also recommend the use of ice therapy, which can help to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief.
- Range of motion: Once pain is under control, the emphasis shifts to restoring normal range of motion in the elbow joint. Physiotherapists prescribe gentle stretching exercises and joint mobilizations to improve flexibility and alleviate stiffness. These exercises aim to gradually increase the range of motion without exacerbating the symptoms.
- Motor control: This stage focuses on improving the control and coordination of the forearm and wrist muscles to prevent further strain and injury. Physiotherapists prescribe specific exercises to enhance muscle activation and stability in the forearm. They may also provide guidance on modifying activities and using proper technique to reduce strain on the affected tendons.
- Strengthening: Strengthening the forearm muscles is crucial for promoting healing and preventing future episodes of golfer’s elbow. Range physiotherapists will design a progressive exercise program that targets the muscles involved in wrist flexion and grip strength. This may include exercises with resistance bands, dumbbells, or specialized equipment to gradually build strength and endurance.
- Maintenance: The final stage focuses on maintaining the gains achieved through rehabilitation and preventing recurrence. Range physiotherapists will provide guidance on maintaining an appropriate exercise program, including stretching and strengthening exercises for the forearm. They may also provide advice on ergonomic modifications, proper equipment use, and techniques to prevent overuse and repetitive strain.
In addition to physiotherapy, other treatment options for golfer’s elbow may include the use of braces or straps to provide support and reduce strain on the affected tendons. In more severe or persistent cases, management may also include shockwave therapy, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or injection therapies.
It is important to work closely with a qualified physiotherapist who specializes in treating golfer’s elbow. Range physiotherapists will assess your condition, develop a tailored treatment plan, and monitor progress throughout the rehabilitation process. With proper treatment, exercises, and modifications to activities, individuals with golfer’s elbow can experience significant pain reduction, improved function, and a return to their desired level of activity.
For more information regarding Golfer’s elbow please see: see: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Medial_Epicondyle_Tendinopathy?utm_source=physiopedia&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=ongoing_internal
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/elbow-pain
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/search-results/golfers%20elbow