Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects golfers as well as people who perform repetitive gripping activities. Golfer’s elbow symptoms are characterized by pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, often resulting in decreased grip strength and limited range of motion. In this blog post, we will explore the causes and discuss golfer’s elbow treatment options to alleviate your symptoms.
Rest and Ice
One of the most effective ways to treat golfer’s elbow is to rest your affected arm and apply ice to the area for 15-20 minutes every few hours. This helps reduce swelling and inflammation, which are common culprits of pain in the elbow joint.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy can help golfer’s elbow by aiding you regain strength and mobility in your affected arm through exercises designed specifically for your condition. A physiotherapist can also use techniques such as massage, ultrasound therapy, or dry needling to promote healing in the affected area.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is another way to quickly treat golfer’s elbow. It involves manual adjustments to realign joints in your body, including those in your elbow joint that may be causing pain due to misalignment or subluxation. This can help reduce inflammation and improve range of motion.
Bracing
Wearing an elbow brace can provide support and stability to the affected area while it heals. It can also help prevent further injury by limiting movement that may exacerbate your symptoms.
Medication
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen or naproxen can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with golfer’s elbow. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
Golfer’s elbow can be a frustrating condition that limits your ability to perform daily tasks or enjoy your favorite sports. However, with proper treatment and care, you can reduce your symptoms and regain strength in your affected arm. Rest and ice, physiotherapy, chiropractic care, bracing, and medication are all effective treatment options to help get you back to doing the things you love pain-free. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort in your elbow joint, consult with a healthcare professional to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.
If you have any questions or would like to explore further, please book a free, no-charge online appointment with either myself, Nitin Nair, BPT, R/TRO DIP, PT, or another Kitchener physiotherapy practitioner at CARESPACE. We are happy to listen and are here to help!
