Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow)

Golfer’s Elbow Treatment in Gilbert & Mesa, AZ

Overview

Commonly known as “golfer’s elbow,” medial epicondylitis is an inflammatory condition affecting the tendons that connect your elbow and forearm. Associated pain is most common near the bony outside portion of the elbow where the tendon attaches, but for some people, it is also present in the forearm and wrist.

Like tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow is a common condition and reason for seeking elbow pain treatment. However, you don’t need to play golf or be an athlete to develop the condition. Anyone who repetitively uses their wrists or grips objects can be affected.

Treatment Options for Golfer’s Elbow

A golfer’s elbow often resolves on its own with adequate rest. Other treatment options may include:

  • Physical therapy
  • Ice or heat therapy
  • Reduction of the repetitive activities that contributed to the condition
  • Adjustments to activity form (golf or otherwise)
  • Wearing a counterforce brace
  • Daily strengthening exercises and stretches
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Extracorporeal shock wave therapy
  • Surgery

At The Pain Experts of Arizona, we deliver personalized treatment for golfer’s elbow based on your condition's severity, lifestyle, and individual needs.

Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow is caused by damage to the muscles and tendons surrounding the elbow. Repetitive stress to the surrounding tendons and muscular structures of your wrists, hands, and fingers can cause the condition.

Though golf is a prime example of an activity that can cause this condition, there are other common causes as well. These include:

Weight Training

Lifting motions — especially when improperly performed — can result in medial epicondylitis, so it can be common in weight lifters. For example, curling the wrists when lifting can place too much stress on the elbow and related tendons.

Throwing Sports

Athletes who repeatedly and forcefully propel balls and other objects through the air via their wrists are prone to golfer’s elbow. Sports that may cause golfer’s elbow include baseball, softball, tennis, racquetball, and football. Archery is also another potential culprit due to the persistent grip required to properly hold the bow.

Work-Related, Repetitive Stress Injuries

Many professionals perform similarly forceful or repetitive physical movements throughout their workdays and can develop golfer’s elbow. Examples include plumbers, construction workers, automotive technicians, and carpenters.

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

If you think you may have golfer’s elbow, consider these symptoms. The next step is scheduling an appointment with a doctor who can perform a thorough assessment and make an accurate diagnosis.

Tingling or numbness

Issues with the elbow can affect the nerves that supply feeling to your arm and fingers, causing tingling or numbness. This is most common in the pinkie and ring fingers.

Pain and discomfort

Medial epicondylitis can be very painful and can worsen when you perform certain movements. Patients often feel pain on the interior of the affected elbow and sometimes down the inner forearm and wrist.

Weakness and Stiffness

Golfer’s elbow can easily affect your ability to use your arm effectively. For example, your elbow, hand, wrist, or arm may feel weak or stiff, and you may experience difficulty grasping or gripping objects.

FAQs

What Is the Fastest Way to Fix Golfer’s Elbow?

Rest is often the first course of action when treating golfer’s elbow, as this gives the body time to naturally heal, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. However, some patients may benefit from more interventions, such as exercises and physical therapy. It is important to recover at your own pace to avoid worsening your condition.

What Can Be Mistaken for Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow is most commonly mistaken for tennis elbow since it mimics the same symptoms and can develop from the same causes. The primary difference is the part of the elbow they affect; tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) affects the inner portion of the elbow, while golfer’s elbow affects the inner side.

Is It Safe to Lift Weights With Golfer’s Elbow?

It may be advisable to avoid weightlifting until your symptoms resolve. Maintaining proper form is crucial to preventing further injury or recurring golfer’s elbow when lifting weights. You should also be mindful of the number of repetitions you perform; overworking your elbow can lead to pain and injury.

What Happens if Golfer’s Elbow Goes Untreated?

Without treatment, golfer’s elbow can continue to worsen, cause more pain, and impair mobility.

Schedule an Appointment With The Pain Experts of Arizona

The highly skilled team medical team at The Pain Experts of Arizona offers comprehensive treatment for golfer’s elbow, elbow pain, and other joint problems in Gilbert and Mesa, AZ. We are dedicated to providing the best care to help you live pain-free.

Please complete our online form to schedule an appointment or call us at 480-550-9393.

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