The elbow plays a crucial role in our everyday activities. Often, these involve repetitive movements, making the elbow vulnerable to overuse injuries such as golfer’s elbow. Medically known as medial epicondylitis, golfer's elbow is the inflammation of the tendons (tendonitis) connecting the elbow and the forearm, causing pain. This is more with flexion of the wrist and/or making a fist.

If you are experiencing elbow pain and numbness, read this blog to understand golfer’s elbow, its causes and symptoms, and some natural treatment options.

What Is Golfer's Elbow?

Golfer's elbow is a condition that causes pain on the inside of the elbow, extending down the wrist. It is often mistaken for tennis elbow. Tennis elbow affects the outer edge (lateral side) of the arms when held at the sides with the palms facing forward. Thus, the pain occurs outside the elbow. On the other hand, golfer’s elbow affects the inner edge (medial side).

Golfer’s Elbow Causes and Symptoms

Playing golf or other sports is not the only cause of golfer’s elbow. It can develop if you perform repetitive motions, such as hammering, lifting, and even typing, creating tears in the tendons.

Its symptoms include the following:

• Pain in the inner elbow, especially in the morning

• Pain radiating to the forearm or the wrist

• Pain when making a fist

• Decreased grip strength

• Numbness and tingling in the hand

Diagnosing Golfer's Elbow

A healthcare professional will ask what activities trigger your elbow pain. Then, they will perform a physical exam, during which they may apply pressure to the affected area and ask you to move your elbow and arms. Imaging tests such as MRI, CT scans, and bone scans can confirm the diagnosis but aren’t necessarily needed. 

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care for golfer’s elbow can effectively address the inflammation of the tendons. Chiropractors manipulate the elbow, the forearm, and the wrist, realigning the joints and relieving pressure on the tendons. These adjustments help decrease inflammation and promote healing.

In addition to manipulation, chiropractors may recommend stretching and strengthening exercises as part of the rehabilitation process. According to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, as chiropractic adjustments alleviate pain, they create the conditions necessary for engaging in more vigorous exercises. This comprehensive approach leads to a more effective and faster recovery.

Other Treatment Options

Dry Needling

Dry needling involves inserting fine needles into trigger points in the muscles to relieve tension and pain. This therapy helps reduce inflammation and improves blood flow to the affected area, healing golfer’s elbow.

Myofascial Techniques

Myofascial techniques focus on releasing tightness and restrictions in the connective tissues surrounding the muscles. The gentle pressure and stretching reduce pain and enhance mobility in the elbow.

IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization)

IASTM uses specialized tools to break down scar tissue and fascial restrictions. This technique stimulates the body's healing response, improving tendon function and reducing discomfort. 

Rehabilitation

Stretching and strengthening exercises restore the flexibility and stability of the muscles around the elbows, which helps reduce pain and prevent future injuries. Rehabilitation involves both concentric exercises, which tighten the muscles, and eccentric exercises, which relax the muscles. In conjunction with the elbow, looking after the shoulder to improve strength will also assist in golfer’s elbow pain. 

Tips for Preventing Golfer's Elbow

Regular chiropractic adjustments help restore proper joint movement and increase the elbow's range of motion, thus preventing golfer's elbow.

Outside the clinic, you can follow these practical tips to prevent golfer's elbow.

For Players

• Warm up thoroughly before engaging in sports or exercises.

• Observe correct form and technique during sports activities.

• Choose sports equipment that fits your size and strength.

• Adjust grip sizes on sports gear to ensure a comfortable hold.

• Wear supportive gear like elbow braces or straps to alleviate pressure on the tendons.

For Professionals

• Adjust chair height and keyboard position to minimize strain on your arms and elbows.

• Use ergonomic tools such as split keyboards, vertical mice, and wrist supports.

• Maintain proper posture to avoid additional stress on the arms and elbows.

Takeaway

Golfer’s elbow is a restricting condition that affects everyday activities and sports performance. If you are experiencing symptoms, effective management is essential for maintaining your health and enjoying your favorite activities without discomfort or limitation.

Say goodbye to discomfort and take the first step toward feeling your best with personalized care and comprehensive treatment plans at Stumpff Chiropractic. Dr. Eric Stumpff uses various manual therapies, including chiropractic adjustments, to provide natural elbow pain relief and enhanced mobility.

Call (954) 368-4054 to schedule an appointment.