Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the muscles and tendons of the forearm, specifically those that attach to the inside of the elbow.

It is often seen in golfers, but can also be caused by other activities that involve repetitive wrist and hand movements, such as throwing, lifting, and gripping.

Common Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms of golfer’s elbow usually develop gradually and include pain, stiffness, and weakness in the affected arm. The pain is typically located on the inner side of the elbow and may radiate down the forearm. It may be aggravated by gripping or twisting movements, and may also be accompanied by swelling and tenderness.

How Can It Be Treated?

Treatment for golfer’s elbow typically involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE) to reduce pain and inflammation. A physiotherapist can also provide manual therapy, such as massage and stretching, to help improve range of motion and flexibility.
Exercise is also an important component of golfer’s elbow treatment, with a focus on strengthening and stretching the muscles and tendons of the forearm. Eccentric exercises, which involve lengthening the muscle while it is under tension, have been found to be particularly effective in reducing pain and improving function in people with golfer’s elbow.

Other treatment options may include the use of braces or splints to support the affected area, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help reduce pain and inflammation.

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Scientific References

1. Bisset LM, Vicenzino B. Physiotherapy management of lateral epicondylalgia. Journal of physiotherapy. 2015 Oct 1;61(4):174-81.
2. Smidt N, Assendelft WJ, van der Windt DA, Hay EM, Buchbinder R, Bouter LM. Corticosteroid injections for lateral epicondylitis: a systematic review. Pain. 2002 Mar 1;96(1-2):23-40.
3. Coombes BK, Bisset L, Vicenzino B. A new integrative model of lateral epicondylalgia. British journal of sports medicine. 2009 Jul 1;43(7):252-8.
4. Visnes H, Bahr R. The evolution of eccentric training as treatment for patellar tendinopathy (jumper’s knee): a critical review of exercise programmes. British journal of sports medicine. 2007 Nov 1;41(10):e1