Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) is similar to that of Tennis Elbow. The difference? Golfer’s Elbow occurs on the inside aspect of the elbow where muscles attach to the bone. Golfer’s Elbow is generally caused by overuse or overload of the muscles along the inside of the forearm. These muscles act as flexors of the wrist. In addition to the aforementioned area, it is good practice to examine the Ulnar Nerve to rule out nerve entrapment in the groove behind the Medial Epicondyle.

Signs and symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow include pain and local tenderness over the medial epicondyle. Golfer’s Elbow may also be caused by other sports and activities that involve the wrist, such as racquetball and use of a computer mouse. Athletes with strong overhead motions, like baseball or tennis players, may also experience this pathology. Mechanical adjustments to a particular motion can certainly improve your problem. A swing that has too much wrist movement can flare up a case of medial epicondylitis. Consult a qualified golf pro to analyze your swing and help you change it if needed. If it’s your computer that flares you up, then a ergonomic assessment or newly designed mouse may be just what the doctor ordered. A physical therapist can recommend specific treatments for golfer’s elbow. These may include:

• Application of ice several times a day for pain relief (see Activewrap product)
• Stretching and strengthening your wrist and forearm muscles (consult your local therapist)
• Keeping your wrist in a stabilized neutral position when lifting objects
• Using a forearm strap