Medial epicondylitis, is the fancy medical word for “Golfer’s Elbow” or “Pitcher’s Elbow.”
What is Golfer’s Elbow?
This overuse injury is characterized by pain on the inside of the elbow that can radiate into the forearm. It occurs when inflammation affects the tendons that connect the forearm to the elbow. Golfer’s elbow usually occurs from repetitive gripping, flexing, or rotating the wrist as seen in golfers or pitchers, but can affect anyone who repetitively uses their hands, wrists, forearms, or elbows.
How to Treat “Golfer’s Elbow”
This condition can usually go away with rest, ice, and possible bracing. However, Golfer’s elbow can be a debilitating and antagonizing condition that is sometimes hard to overcome without the help of medical professionals. Instead of pushing through the constant pain and making the condition worse, it is more advantageous to address the issue and take care of it now. If the rest and ice treatment fails, physical therapy is a great way to reduce the pain and inflammation in the tendons, and hopefully prevent the tendinitis from returning.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
Physical therapy can help by stretching the tendons and muscles that are affected, as well as provide therapeutic massages and modalities that can aid in reducing pain and inflammation. A big part of physical therapy will be to strengthen the muscles and tendons in the forearm, hand, and wrist so that they can be able to withstand the repetitive stress placed on them. At Loudoun Sports Therapy Center we are able to effectively treat golfer’s elbow and give you the tools and guidance to continue strengthening on your own to prevent the injury from recurring.
