What You Need To Know About Golfer’s Elbow

Learn The Symptoms, Causes, and Remedies

Golfer's elbow is a common condition among golfers of all skill levels. The medical term is "medial epicondylitis." Golfers with golfer's elbow typically feel pain along the palm side of the forearm, from the elbow to the wrist. You don't have to be a golfer to experience this pain. People who play a racket sport, do weightlifting, or any throwing-type sport (like baseball) can also suffer from elbow pain.

Photo Credit: https://www.physio-pedia.com/File:Wrist_flexors.png

The pain typically starts in the tendons of your forearm muscles, which are attached to the inside of your elbow. You'll experience the pain spread from the inside of the elbow to your forearm, wrist, and fingers due to inflammation in the muscles and tendons.

The primary cause for golfer's elbow is repeated stress from repetitive movements and force on the wrist and arm. The repetitive stress causes tears in the flexor tendons, resulting in inflammation, pain, and tenderness. If you are experiencing golfer's elbow or are worried about getting it in the future, fortunately, there are ways to reduce and prevent the pain.

Common Symptoms: 

• Pain and tenderness on the inside of your elbow, typically where the bone is. 

• Stiffness around the elbow. 

• Weakness in the wrist, particularly weakness in your grip.

• Numbness and tingling that radiates down from the elbow to your fingers, typically your ring and middle finger.

Golfer’s Elbow Test:

Watch the following video to see how you can test for golfer’s elbow:

Image courtesy of 3B Smart Anatomy.

How to Remedy the Pain:

If you suffer from golfer’s elbow, there are solutions to help reduce pain. These will consist of functional training exercises to help improve your range of motion and strength. Each person’s functional training program will look different, so schedule a consultation to get started today. 

Prevent Golfer’s Elbow:

Of course, preventing these symptoms is ideal. Working with a physical therapist or golf fitness specialist can help you prevent golfer’s elbow.

• You’ll want to maintain your shoulder, forearm, and muscle strength and mobility; and

• Use proper technique and form when performing repetitive movements.

To enroll in a performance program that strengthens your muscles and improves your mobility and balance, schedule a consultation with PerformanceAbove today.