Golfer’s Elbow
When golf pros assess a person’s golf swing, they focus on the movement of the club. When a therapist assesses a patient who plays golf, the therapist focuses on body motion through the swing rather than the club. This enables therapists to evaluate the biomechanics of the golf swing and pinpoint a problem in the swing that may lead to injuries such as golfer’s elbow.
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow. Golfer’s elbow is similar to tennis elbow except that it occurs on the inside, not the outside, of the elbow. Anyone who repeatedly uses the wrists or clenches the fingers can develop golfer's elbow.
SSPT’s approach to treating golfer’s elbow
The sooner you begin treatment for golfer’s elbow, the sooner you’ll be able to return to your usual activities. Rest is often advised until the pain in gone. Depending on the severity of your condition, the pain may linger for several months, even if you take it easy and follow instructions to exercise your arm. Sometimes the pain returns or becomes chronic.
While you’re recovering, remember to rest! Sneaking in a round of golf before your elbow heals won’t help you feel better—it will only prolong your recovery.
Your treatment for golfer’s elbow at SSPT may include:
- Joint and soft tissue mobilization
- Modalities such as electrical stimulation, ice, or ultrasound to help reduce pain
- Therapeutic exercises to stretch and strengthen the elbow
- A progression of activities to gradually ease you back to your daily routine
- A review of your golf swing
- Education on proper body mechanics to avoid future injury
