Golfers Elbow

There is nothing like a round of golf on a beautiful summer morning; the smell of freshly cut grass, birds chirping and the sun coming up over the horizon. When you are suffering a sporting injury however, the joy of golf can turn into a less than joyful experience.

Known medically as EPICONDYLITIS, Golfers Elbow causes pain and discomfort at the inner elbow joint, spreading to the forearm and wrist. Golfer’s Elbow is not limited to golfers, however. Many activities can lead to Golfer’s Elbow, including racket sports and throwing sports. Similar to Tennis Elbow, Golfer’s Elbow is related to excess or repetitive stress, especially forceful wrist and finger motions, damaging the muscles and tendons that control your wrist and fingers.

Symptoms can include stiffness in the elbow, a weakness in hands and wrists and numbness or tingling sensation radiating to the fingers. If left untreated, golfer’s elbow can cause persistent elbow pain.

Rest is extremely important in the recovery process. Sneaking in a round of golf before you are fully healed will only prolong your recovery.

Most common in men ages 20 to 49, the pain of Golfer’s Elbow can appear suddenly or gradually and may get worse when you:

• Swing a golf club or racket
• Squeeze or pitch a ball
• Shake hands
• Turn a doorknob
• Pick up something with your palm down
• Flex your wrist toward your forearm

But don’t fret! Golfer’s Elbow doesn’t have to keep you off the course or away from your favourite activities forever! With rest and appropriate treatment from your physiotherapist, you will be back in the swing of things in no time.