Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylopathy is an injury to the inside of the elbow (medial epicondyle) where the wrist flexors attach. Golfer’s elbow can come from a variety of causes. Often there is repetitive inward force on the elbow, overload of the wrist flexors, trauma, improper healing from activity or excessive stretching. This type of injury is common among athletes who golf, throw overhead, bowl or lift. It can also come from jobs that require repetitive wrist motions. Risk factors for developing golfer’s elbow include inadequate warm up, poor conditioning, weakness, inflexibility, poor technique, smoking, and diabetes.
Individuals with golfer’s elbow often feel a dull ache over the inside of the elbow that starts without an obvious cause or injury. The more they use it, the worse the pain becomes. Some may notice a weakened grip strength and struggle with grasping.
Treatment for golfer’s elbow starts with the removal of the insulting activities. Manual release is used to increase the flexibility of the muscles of the arm and forearm. Manipulation is used to restore normal joint mechanics. Rehabilitation exercises are used to restore the load capacity of the wrist flexors and treat any other underlying dysfunction.
If you have an issue that you would like some guidance with, give us a call at (616) 301-1702.
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