What is Golfer’s Elbow?

Sports Medicine Manhattan

Golfer’s elbow is the term used to describe a condition that causes
pain on the inner side of the elbow and forearm. The tendon it mainly
effects is the flexor carpi radialis, otherwise known as the muscle used
to flex the wrist. Although the term is “golfer’s elbow,”
golfers represent only a small fraction of individuals who are affected
by this injury. Golfer’s elbow can be experienced in bikers, tennis
players, construction workers and pianists. In this blog, we’ll
explain how and why golfer’s elbow occurs and what the proper remedies are.


How And Why Does Golfer’s Elbow Occur?


There are a number of reasons that can explain why golfer’s elbow
occurs. It’s most commonly caused by any activity that requires
a repeated motion using your forehand – vigorous typing, hammering,
lifting or overdoing wrist curls can all cause golfer’s elbow. The
pain can last for up to 2 years, depending on how well your muscles and
tendons heal. If you continue to strain the affected area, however, adhesive
tissue can start to form and will delay your recovery. The pain associated
with golfer’s elbow is minimal in the elbow, but without proper
treatment, the injury can spread throughout the entire muscle and tendon.


How is Golfer’s Elbow Treated?


There are two types of treatment that can be used to alleviate golfer’s
elbow pain. The first is
friction, which involves a sports medicine doctor pressing down on the tendon by
the elbow and begin fractioning for 5-6 minutes followed by massaging
the upper forearm to increase blood circulation to the tendon. The second
treatment option is
exercise. The doctor will then instruct you to extend your arm and hold a one or
two-pound weight then curl your hand up and down.


If you’re experiencing pain consistent with golfer’s elbow,
it’s important that you seek attention from a knowledgeable medical
professional who can guide you through treatment without risk of further
injury. To schedule an appointment with our experienced Manhattan sports
medicine doctor, call (646) 798-1330.


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