Summer is finally in full swing! As the weather warms up and the sun stays out, many people are looking for any excuse to do something outdoors. For golfers, this means more time on the green. But with all that extra play comes an increased risk of golfer’s elbow, a common elbow injury. 

In this article, we will discuss what it is, what aggravates it, and how you can treat it. We will also provide some stretches you can do to help prevent it from developing in the first place. Finally, we’ll tell you how The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic can help if you are already experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow.

What is Golfer’s Elbow?

It is a condition that results from overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm. It is similar to tennis elbow, which occurs on the outside of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow, on the other hand, affects the inside of the elbow. The condition is also referred to as medial epicondylitis. 

Golfer’s elbow gets its name because the condition is often seen in golfers, but it can affect anyone who repetitively uses their forearm muscles. Symptoms include pain on the inside of the elbow, tenderness to touch, weakness in the forearm muscles, and stiffness. The pain may radiate down into the wrist or up into the shoulder. 

This type of elbow injury is most often seen in adults between the ages of 40 and 60.

What Aggravates Golfer’s Elbow?

As we mentioned before, golfer’s elbow is caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons in the forearm. This can be from a single activity or from repeated activities over time. Some activities that commonly lead to it include:

  • Golfing
  • Throwing a ball
  • Weightlifting
  • Racquet sports

It is important to note that you don’t have to be a golfer to develop golfer’s elbow. Any activity that requires repetitive motion of the forearm can lead to the condition.

Treatments

There are several things you can do to treat golfer’s elbow at home. Rest is important, as is ice and over-the-counter pain medication. You should also avoid activities that aggravate your symptoms. If these home treatments don’t provide relief, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or corticosteroid injections. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Stretches to Try

One of the best ways to prevent golfer’s elbow is to stretch the muscles and tendons in your forearm. The following stretches can help:

  • Wrist flexor stretch: Extend your arm out in front of you with your palm facing down. Use your other hand to bend your wrist back until you feel a stretch in your forearm. Hold for 30 seconds.
  • Wrist extensor stretch: Extend your arm out in front of you with your palm facing up. Use your other hand to bend your wrist back until you feel a stretch in your forearm. Hold for 30 seconds.

How The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic Can Help

If you are experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow, the specialists at The Orthopedic Partners, an RCM Clinic can help. He offers a variety of treatments, including physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, and surgery. We will work with you to find the best treatment for your individual case. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.