Golfer’s Elbow / Medial Epicondylitis

Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow, medically known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the inside of the elbow. Despite its name, golfer’s elbow can affect anyone who repeatedly uses their wrists or clenches their fingers, not just golfers.

Symptoms

Symptoms of golfer’s elbow include:

1. Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm.
2. Weakness in the hands and wrists.
3. Stiffness in the elbow joint.
4. Difficulty gripping or holding objects.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Physiotherapy is often a crucial component of the treatment plan for golfer’s elbow. A physiotherapist can develop a customized rehabilitation program tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals. Here are some common physiotherapy treatments for golfer’s elbow:

1. Manual Therapy: This involves hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilizations, and soft tissue mobilization to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and promote healing in the affected tissues.
2. Stretching Exercises: Stretching exercises can help improve flexibility and range of motion in the elbow and forearm muscles. These stretches may target the wrist flexors, forearm pronators, and other muscles involved in golfer’s elbow.
3. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening exercises are essential for rehabilitating the muscles and tendons around the elbow joint. These exercises typically focus on eccentric strengthening of the wrist and forearm muscles to improve their capacity to withstand stress during activities.
4. Ultrasound Therapy: Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves to generate heat deep within the tissues, which can help increase blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing.
5. Electrotherapy: Modalities such as TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) or Iontophoresis may be used to manage pain and inflammation in the affected area.
6. Bracing or Taping: A physiotherapist may recommend using a brace or taping technique to provide support to the elbow joint and reduce stress on the affected tendons during activities.
7. Activity Modification: The physiotherapist can provide guidance on modifying activities or sports techniques to minimize strain on the elbow and facilitate recovery.
8. Home Exercise Program: In addition to in-clinic treatments, a physiotherapist will typically prescribe a home exercise program consisting of stretching and strengthening exercises to be performed regularly between sessions.

Other Treatment

Treatment options for golfer’s elbow typically include rest, Anti-inflammatory medications.
In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be recommended.

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