Golfer's elbow is an inflammatory condition of the tendons in the elbow. The medical term for the condition is medial epicondylitis; medial refers to the inner area of the elbow. Golfer's elbow can affect anyone, not just golfers, and is similar to tennis elbow, an inflammation of the outside of the elbow.
Causes
Golfer's elbow is marked by inflammation of the tendons in the elbow, but overuse of the fingers and wrist muscles can lead to the condition. Tightly gripping a golf club, tennis racquet or similar equipment can cause strain in the arm, leading to what is known medically as medial epicondylitis. MayoClinic.com explains that other repetitive motion activities--some having nothing to do with sports--also can cause a person to develop golfer's elbow, including common household chores like painting or raking leaves.
Symptoms
Forearm pain is the main symptom of golfer's elbow. The strain that causes the discomfort is located in the inner side of the elbow near the bony joint, but a person could experience pain at any point between the wrist and elbow. Tingling and stiffness may occur in conjunction with tenderness or as an alternative symptom. Localized weakness, such as when you try to make a first to grasp something, also can be a sign of medial epicondylitis.
Diagnosis
A doctor most likely will diagnose golfer's elbow through examination and by taking a medical history. Be sure to tell the doctor about any day-to-day activities that could contribute to repetitive strain injuries. Ruling out other injuries, such as a fracture or muscle tear, may be required through X-rays or MRI tests.
Treatment
The first line of treatment for golfer's elbow is rest and icing the affected area. Icing the inner forearm several times daily for 20 minutes at a time helps reduce inflammation and controls pain during the first two to three days after symptoms begin. Wrapping or bracing the forearm, especially before participating in sports or other activities that may have contributed to the condition, can give the muscles and tendons support and also help manage swelling. Over-the-counter NSAIDS--non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs--such as ibuprofen also can help relieve pain. Depending on the extent of the injury, you may be referred to a physical therapist who will prescribe stretching exercises designed to strengthen the arm and help you regain full range of motion.
Prevention
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends stretches that develop strong wrist, finger and forearm muscles to help prevent golfer's elbow. A simple exercise you can do at home involves squeezing a tennis ball with your hand as many times as possible in a five-minute period. Performing wrist curls with hand weights--consult a doctor or physical therapist to determine the appropriate weight--also can be beneficial. To perform wrist curls, hold the weight in an open hand, with palms facing the sky. Let the weight roll down to the fingers, then maneuver it back up to the wrist as you curl your fingers and wrist upward toward your body.
