Golfer's Elbow - Affects Many

Those who suffer with golfer’s elbow know exactly how painful it can be. You may not be aware of this but golfer’s elbow affects more than just golfers.

I don’t want to get too technical but golfer’s elbow is also known as medial epicondylitis. The medial epicondyle is the name given to a small bump on the inner side of the upper arm bone (humerus) where it connects at the elbow to the forearm bone (ulna). Muscles that control the wrist and hand movements connect to the medial epicondyle. Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) occurs when the tendons to those muscles become stressed, irritated and inflamed.

You may be wondering why those tendons become stressed, irritated or inflamed. It’s generally because of poor body mechanics while using the arms and hands during some repetitive activity (such as swinging a golf club). Golfer’s elbow is the common name given to this painful condition, however other repetitive activities such as throwing a ball, swinging a racquet or using hand tools can also contribute to medial epicondylitis.

If you develop pain on the inner side of your elbow that becomes worsened with repetitive hand and arm activities or gripping you may be suffering from golfer’s elbow.

Gentle chiropractic adjustments to the elbow, shoulder and even the wrist can greatly improve this debilitating condition.

Sometimes patients wonder why adjustments to the shoulder and wrist are necessary to correct this condition – it’s because the forearm bones and upper arm bones connect to both the shoulder and wrist. Merely treating the elbow will only act as a band-aid and will not allow the condition to become fully corrected.

Once you’ve been adjusted and your elbow has regained its healthy alignment it may be helpful to engage in light, non-stressful wrist and arm exercises. This will help to strengthen and further stabilize your elbow joint.

You may also want to evaluate your body mechanics as you engage in repetitive activities or sports that you practice on a regular basis - similar to how a person suffering with a back problem would evaluate their sitting posture to ensure they do not create unnecessary stress to their spine. It may even be helpful to ask a friend to watch you or video tape your activities that you’d like to evaluate.

There are many potential causes for arm and/or elbow pain therfore if you experience symptoms be certain to seek prompt medical attention to determine an accurate diagnosis for your condition.