Golfer’s elbow is a common condition that affects many golfers and athletes in general. Unlike the name suggests, it can affect anyone, not just golfers. It is a type of tendinitis that occurs when the tendons in your forearm muscles become inflamed due to overuse or injury. The pain typically starts at the bony bump on the inside of your elbow and radiates down your forearm. In this blog post, we will discuss what triggers golfer’s elbow and how you can prevent it.
Overuse: One of the main causes of golfer’s elbow is overuse, which can occur due to repetitive motions like swinging a golf club or racket or throwing a ball. When you use the same muscle groups repeatedly without adequate rest, it could cause small tears in your tendons leading to inflammation and pain.
Poor Technique: Another trigger for golfer’s elbow is poor technique while playing sports like tennis or golf. If you don’t use proper form when swinging a club or racket, you put undue stress on your elbow joint leading to strains and sprains.
Weakness in Forearm Muscles: If you have weak forearm muscles, it could lead to an imbalance between them causing some muscles to work harder than others leading to strain and injury. Strengthening these muscles through exercises like wrist curls could help reduce the risk of developing golfer’s elbow.
Age: As we age, our tendons lose their elasticity making them more prone to tearing and inflammation leading to conditions like golfer’s elbow.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis could increase the risk of developing golfer’s elbow as they weaken joints and tendons making them more susceptible to injury.
Some foods can exacerbate golfer’s elbow symptoms. Speak to a professional to avoid things that can make your condition worse.
In conclusion, understanding what triggers golfer’s elbow is crucial in preventing it. Whether you’re an athlete or not, taking care of your tendons and muscles through proper form, rest, and exercise could help prevent this condition. If you do experience pain around your elbow, consulting with a physiotherapist or chiropractor could help diagnose the cause and provide effective treatment. Don’t let golfer’s elbow keep you off the course or from enjoying your favorite activities – take proactive steps to prevent it today!
