Golfer’s elbow is when you feel pain on the inside of your elbow. You don’t even need to play golf to have ‘golfers’ elbow’! It happens because the tendons that bend your wrist, hand and fingers get strained where they connect to the inner elbow. We used to think it
was because of inflammation, but now we know it’s more about the tendon struggling to cope with the loads because it’s not as strong as it should be. Golfer’s elbow symptoms can also come from misaligned ribs and/or neck, or from poor motor control of the trunk and
neck.
The good news is, even though golfers’ elbow can stick around for a while, there are plenty of things we can do to help.
If you’re not a golfer, the treatment process remains the same – scroll down to the treatment section. However, if you are a golfer, keep reading for additional details.
Why do amateur players get more elbow pain than professionals?
Did you know that amateur golfers experience elbow pain twice as often as professionals?
Here’s why: When you lack flexibility in your hips, trunk, and shoulders (like many amateurs do) you rely too much on your wrists and elbows to power your swing. This puts excessive strain on your elbow joints, leading to golfers’ elbow.
In contrast, pros have mastered smooth movement from hips to shoulders, distributing forces evenly across their bodies. It’s like they’re conducting a symphony of movement, avoiding overloading any one area.
So, what’s the takeaway? It’s not just about perfecting your swing—it’s about ensuring your entire body is in top form. After all, in golf, staying strong and pain-free is essential from start to finish.
Physiotherapy can be a game-changer in managing elbow pain:
Initial Pain Phase: Treatment may involve gentle manipulation of the neck, ribs, or elbow joint, along with targeted muscle therapy to improve joint mobility and reduce soft tissue tension. Techniques like taping or wearing a brace can provide relief by reducing strain on
the tendon.
LOVE and PEACE Protocol: We follow this approach to tackle acute pain—check out our Instagram post for details.
Strengthening Phase: As pain subsides, strengthening becomes crucial. We guide patients through a gradual program:
1. Exercises to engage muscles without joint movement.
2. Progress to exercises involving joint movement.
3. Incorporate speed work to enhance muscle function.
Are you experiencing golfers’ elbow or other elbow pain? Book an appointment with our Physiotherapy team to help alleviate your symptoms. Call 8068 4696, email us, or drop by the clinic for a chat.