By: Adam Renelt, DC
Updated 3/7/24
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
As a chiropractor, we are trained in the anatomy and evaluation of almost all joints in the body, not just spinal evaluation. Sometimes, my patients are surprised to hear that chiropractic care may be able to help extremities such as the shoulder, elbow or wrist. Today I am going to discuss a condition call golfer’s elbow. Pain on the inside, or medial aspect of the elbow, and into the forearm may be caused by golfer’s elbow. Golfer’s elbow, also called medial epicondylitis, typically occurs when the muscles and tendons that flex the wrist are strained or overused. It is a common condition that is often caused by a swinging a golf club but can also be caused by other forceful repetitive movements of the wrist and/or fingers. The repetitive stress causes inflammation in the tendon, due being overworked or sometimes overstretched.
Self Care
Symptoms may be localized pain or stiffness in the elbow. Pain in the hands or wrist may also be symptoms of this condition. Often the pain will start as a dull pain but can progress to strong, sharp pain if left untreated. If a person suspects that they have golfer’s elbow they can try some at-home treatments to see if they may help. Ice, rest, stretching and/or wearing a brace are all options that can be tried at home. Also, they should try to avoid the activity that caused the symptoms to start in the first place. If at-home care doesn’t help, they should consult with a healthcare provider.
Chiropractic Care and Golfer’s Elbow
Chiropractic care can often help patients that suffer from this condition. When a patient presents to our Sioux Falls office with elbow, forearm, wrist or hand pain we will start by taking a history of the symptoms. Then, an examination will be performed to determine what may be the cause of the symptoms. We will evaluate both the spine and the arm as sometimes arm, elbow or wrist pain may be referred from the spine. If golfer’s elbow is the diagnosis, chiropractic adjustments (to the elbow, wrist and/or spine) and myofascial release (muscle work) may be performed. Also, at-home stretches and lifestyle modifications may be recommended. Most cases that our chiropractors have seen have improved under chiropractic care. If you are suffering from pain in your elbow, forearm, wrist, or hand please contact our office. Our chiropractors would welcome the opportunity to help you feel better and resume your favorite activities.