Golfer’s Elbow

Rehabilitating Golfer’s Elbow: The Role of Physiotherapy in Recovery

Golfer’s elbow, clinically known as medial epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects not only golfers but anyone who repeatedly flexes and extends the wrist. The discomfort and pain associated with this condition can significantly impact performance, whether on the golf course or in everyday tasks. However, there’s good news: physiotherapy offers a tailored approach to alleviate symptoms, promote healing, and prevent recurrence.

Golfer’s elbow manifests as pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the bony bump (medial epicondyle) on the inside of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition isn’t exclusive to golfers; it can affect anyone engaging in activities involving repetitive wrist flexion, such as golfing, gardening, racket sports, or even certain occupational tasks.

The repetitive stress placed on the tendons leads to microtears and inflammation, resulting in pain, stiffness, and weakness in the affected arm. Over time, if left untreated, golfer’s elbow can progress from a nuisance to a debilitating condition, limiting mobility and impacting quality of life.

The Role of Physiotherapy:

Our skilled physiotherapists employ various techniques and modalities to address pain, restore function, and expedite recovery. Here’s how physiotherapy aids in the rehabilitation process:

• Assessment and Diagnosis: The first step in physiotherapy for golfer’s elbow involves a thorough assessment to pinpoint the underlying causes and contributing factors. The physiotherapist evaluates the range of motion, strength, flexibility, and biomechanics of the affected arm.
• Pain Management: Effective pain management is paramount in promoting patient comfort and facilitating rehabilitation. Physiotherapists employ various techniques to alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in the affected area. Hands-on techniques, including massage, myofascial release, and joint mobilisation are integral to help improve blood circulation, loosen tight muscles, and enhance
  tissue flexibility, facilitating healing and restoring normal movement patterns.
• Strengthening and Rehabilitation: Once pain and inflammation are under control, the focus shifts to strengthening the muscles surrounding the elbow and forearm. A tailored exercise program is prescribed to improve muscle endurance and resilience. These exercise will correct any imbalances or deficiencies in movement patterns. By addressing these underlying issues and implementing corrective strategies, they help prevent recurrence and optimise performance.
• Activity Modification and Ergonomic Advice: In addition to hands-on treatment and exercises, physiotherapists provide valuable guidance on activity modification. We educate patients on proper posture, body mechanics, and equipment usage to minimise strain on the elbow and prevent aggravation of symptoms during daily activities and sports participation. Golfer’s elbow can be a debilitating condition, but with the right approach, recovery is within reach. The Physiotherapists at Physio Elements are dedicated to helping you!