What is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow/Medial epicondylitis is characterized by pain at the medial elbow due to degeneration and microtrauma of the common flexor tendon of the wrist and finger joints. Initially, inflammation around this flexor tendon is observed. In the long term, continued injury causes calcification or irreplaceable fibrosis of the tendon.
Causes, Signs & Symptoms:
It is commonly caused by repetitive wrist flexion activities and also due to direct blows to the elbow or sudden extreme contraction of the flexor muscle. Players with golf, baseball, tennis, or any other throwing sports are prone to develop this condition. Also, occupations such as carpentry, and plumbing which require repetitive wrist, forearm, and hand movements are responsible.
A person with this condition usually complains of pain with pressure on the medial (inner) side of the elbow and pain gets provoked by resisted wrist movements.
How to Check for Golfers Elbow:
Special test: Keep your hand in a neutral position, ask someone to supinate (palm up) your forearm passively and follow that straighten your elbow and extend your wrist. If this movement causes pain over the medial (inner) side of your elbow, there are great chances to have Golfer’s elbow.
The person can perform by themselves with another hand.
How Our Physiotherapists Can Help Your Elbow Pain?
Our physiotherapists are able to assess this condition and treat it with great positive results. Treatment for Golfer’s elbow includes education and ergonomic modifications along with progressive resistance training to strengthen muscles and improve their endurance. Acupuncture and ultrasound are also able to give results with manual therapy.
Written by: Anjali Patel. Registered Physiotherapist Resident. Orthopaedic Physiotherapist. Concussion Management
References:
Orthopaedic Division Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Theory Manual
"https://www.physio-pedia.com/Medial_Epicondyle_Tendinopathy"
Integrative Physiotherapy is a Barrie-based clinic that believes in a one-on-one patient-centered, manual therapy (hands-on) approach to physiotherapy. We aim to empower our patients by providing quality care that is personalized to each patient in an interactive and friendly manner. Through the use of the best available treatment techniques, we aim to provide exceptional care so that each patient feels engaged and motivated.
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