When it comes to elbow pain, there are two common conditions that people are susceptible to – Tennis and Golfer’s elbow. In a previous article we had covered Tennis elbow risk factors and explored how this pain condition can develop. Today, we will be going over everything you need to know about the other common type of elbow pain, Golfer’s elbow – including what it is, its causes, signs to look out for, helpful prevention tips and where you can seek treatment.
What is Golfer’s elbow?
While Tennis elbow refers to pain experienced in the outer part of the elbow joint, Golfer’s elbow is the opposite. Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a form of tendonitis that causes inflammation in the tendons that connect the forearm. Typically, the pain is most intense at the bone on the inner part of the elbow and may sometimes radiate into the forearm.
Causes of Golfer’s elbow
Golfer’s elbow is typically the result of an over usage of the muscles in the forearm. These muscles are used in motions such as gripping, grasping, wrist flexion and more.
The condition actually got its name because these forearm muscles are stressed when making a golf swing. However, contrary to popular belief, despite its name, Golfer’s elbow is not a condition that just affects professional golfers. It can be caused by any activity that requires repetitive gripping, flexing, or swinging motions, that may cause the tendons to tear.
Some examples of such activities include:
Any form of sports that requires swinging or throwing, such as baseball, softball, tennis, badminton and more. Improper technique when performing movements such as swinging a racket or pitching a ball, as well as using equipment that is too light or heavy, can aggravate the tendon and lead to Golfer’s elbow.
Lifting weights without proper technique.
Engaging in repetitive movements for work. For instance, occupations such as carpentry, plumbing or painting require forceful, repetitive movements that may cause a strain on the forearm’s muscles.
Signs and symptoms of Golfer’s elbow
Pain from Golfer's elbow may come on suddenly or gradually. Here are some of the common symptoms of Golfer’s elbow:
Experiencing tenderness, swelling or pain on the inner side of your elbow and/or forearm
Tingling or numbness in your fingers
Weakness in your wrists and hands
Stiffness when bending or straightening the elbow joint
Pain that worsens when you lift heavy objects
Prevention Tips
There are a number of things you can try to prevent Golfer’s elbow as much as possible. One of the best prevention tips is to warm up before engaging in any form of sports, especially those that require the repetitive use of the forearm muscles. Prior to every workout, stretch your back, arms, and shoulders. This warms up your muscles and increases blood flow which helps prepare your body for strenuous activities.
Additionally, it would be incredibly helpful to strengthen your forearm muscles. Even simple exercises such as squeezing a tennis ball or lifting light weights can help! If you are lifting weights, do ensure that you keep your wrist locked and stable to minimise the amount of force to your elbow.
Treatment for Golfer’s elbow at Affinity Pain Clinic
If you are experiencing pain symptoms that have not improved in 6 weeks or recurring pain, it may be time to seek help from a professional.
Affinity Pain Clinic is a reputable pain management clinic that offers comprehensive and effective treatments for a range of pain conditions -- including Golfer’s elbow treatment, musculoskeletal pain treatment, Tennis elbow treatment in Singapore and more.
We are committed to providing all our patients with the most recent, evidence-based treatments at the lowest possible cost. With the help of our team of knowledgeable and trained professionals, you will be able to recover quickly and comfortably.
Please feel free to drop us a message at enquire@gastapp.org if you have any additional questions or would like to make an appointment.
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