Understanding and Managing Lower Back Pain
Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a common condition affecting the inner side of the elbow. While golfers often experience this issue due to repetitive gripping motions, anyone—from weightlifters to office workers—can develop it from overuse.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
The condition occurs when repetitive stress damages the tendons attached to the medial epicondyle, a bony bump on the inner elbow. Common triggers include:
- Sports: Golf, tennis, baseball, and other activities requiring repetitive wrist flexion.
- Work-related strain: Carpentry, plumbing, and jobs requiring repetitive hand motions.
- Improper technique: Poor grip or incorrect posture during activities.
Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain and tenderness on the inner elbow
- Stiffness, especially when making a fist
- Weak grip strength
- Numbness or tingling that radiates down the forearm
How to Treat Golfer’s Elbow
- Physiotherapy Interventions
At Stellar Physio, our experts provide tailored manual therapy, dry needling, and rehabilitation exercises to accelerate healing.
- Apply Ice & Compression
Cold therapy helps reduce inflammation. Apply an ice pack for 15-20 minutes several times a day.
- Strengthening & Stretching Exercises
Physiotherapy exercises restore mobility and prevent recurrence. Try:
- Wrist flexor stretch: Extend your arm, palm up, and gently pull back your fingers.
- Grip strengthening: Squeeze a soft ball to rebuild grip strength.
- Eccentric wrist curls: Strengthen forearm muscles to support recovery.
- Rest & Modify Activities
Reducing strain on the affected arm is crucial. Avoid repetitive gripping motions and give your elbow time to heal.
- Medication & Bracing
For severe cases, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help relieve pain. Wearing an elbow brace can also support the tendons during recovery.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
- Warm-up before activity: Stretching improves flexibility and reduces risk.
- Strengthen forearm muscles: A balanced fitness routine prevents strain.
- Improve technique: Proper grip and posture help avoid unnecessary stress on the elbow.
- Take breaks: Avoid excessive strain from repetitive movements.
Golfer’s elbow can be frustrating, but with proper care, rehabilitation, and expert guidance from Stellar Physio, recovery is within reach. If you’re experiencing elbow pain, our team can design a personalized treatment plan to get you back to doing what you love—pain-free