GOLFER'S ELBOW: YOUR VANCOUVER GUIDE TO UNDERSTANDING, TREATING, AND PREVENTING IT

Ever heard of Golfer's Elbow, also known as Medial Epicondylitis? Let's dive into what golfer's elbow is, the symptoms to watch for, what causes it, and most importantly, how to treat and prevent it. We promise to keep the jargon to a minimum and the advice practical.

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What Is Golfer's Elbow, Anyway?

Medically known as "medial epicondylitis," it's the less famous cousin of tennis elbow. It will present itself as inner elbow pain and at times, forearm pain may be felt as well. It's the result of overuse of your elbow's tendons.

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Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow

Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) and tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) are both overuse injuries that cause pain around the elbow, but they affect different tendons and areas. Golfer's elbow causes pain on the inside of the elbow, whereas tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow. Think you’re suffering from tennis elbow? Head over to our blog on tennis elbow to learn more about this injury.

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Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

  • Inner elbow pain, and at times, this pain may extend to your forearm.
  • Elbow stiffness
  • Weakness in your hands and wrists. Oftentimes, people will describe having a weak grip.
  • Numbness or tingling in your fingers (usually the ring and pinky finger).

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Causes and Risk Factors of Golfer's Elbow

Despite its name, golfer's elbow isn't only present in golfers. It's an equal-opportunity nuisance that can result from any activities involving gripping, twisting, or repetitive wrist and arm motions. Below is a list of those who may be at a higher risk of developing golfer’s elbow:

  • Golfers, especially those with improper swinging techniques.
  • Athletes in throwing sports (baseball, javelin throwers, etc.).
  • Musicians, painters, and carpenters who do repetitive movements.
  • Desk workers and others who type or use a mouse excessively.
  • Improper lifting techniques
  • Those involved in having to perform repetitive wrist and arm movements

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Treatment and Management for Golfer's Elbow

  • Rest and Ice: The classic go-to method to reduce inflammation
  • Physiotherapy: Our physiotherapists can teach your elbow some new tricks to strengthen and stretch, ensuring it's better equipped to handle what you throw at it.
  • Chiropractic Care: Adjustments and manipulations to make sure your musculoskeletal system is in tip-top shape, supporting elbow healing.
  • Massage Therapy: To ease muscle tension and improve blood flow.
  • Shockwave Therapy, Dry Needling, and IASTM: Our clinic’s special ops for stubborn pain, breaking down scar tissue, and encouraging healing.

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Preventing Golfer's Elbow

  • Warm-Up Exercises: Get those muscles ready for action prior to sport or activity.
  • Strengthen and Stretch: Regular exercises to build strength and flexibility can make your tendons more resilient.
  • Technique Matters: Whether it's golf, tennis, or typing, proper form and technique plays a large role in prevention.
  • Ergonomic Adjustments: For the desk jockeys, ensuring your desk is properly setup can make a big difference not only for your elbow, but for the rest of your body as well. Our physiotherapists and chiropractors at Therapy X Clinic are all qualified to assess and recommend changes for an optimal desk set up specific to your body.
  • Listen to Your Body: If it's signaling you to take a break, pay attention. Your body knows best.

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Rehab and Beyond: Staying in the Game

If golfer's elbow has already made an appearance, incorporating a tailored rehabilitation plan with a mix of rest, therapy, and gradual reintroduction of activity is crucial. And remember, we're here to guide you through each step, from diagnosis to full recovery, ensuring your elbow is ready to tackle whatever comes its way – whether it's hitting the green, throwing a fastball, or just lifting your morning cup of coffee.

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Why Choose Therapy X Clinic in Vancouver?

At Therapy X Clinic, we believe in making healthcare accessible, understandable, and, yes, even a bit fun! Most of all, you’ll leave our clinic empowered with the knowledge of how you got injured, why you’re experiencing inner elbow pain, how to properly rehabilitate your elbow back to its pain-free days, and a custom tailored exercise plan to prevent it from happening again in the future. Our multidisciplinary team approach ensures that every aspect of your care is coordinated and tailored to your unique needs. We combine expertise from various specialties to provide a comprehensive treatment plan that not only addresses the symptoms of golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), but also works to improve your overall health and well-being with the ultimate goal of longevity in mind.

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Your Next Steps

If you're experiencing symptoms of golfer's elbow, don't wait for it to worsen. Early intervention is key to preventing long-term damage and improving your quality of life. Our clinic in South Granville, Vancouver, B.C., offers a comprehensive range of treatments and expert guidance to help you find relief and regain control over your life.

Sharing this blog with friends, family, or anyone you know who might be suffering in silence can make a huge difference. Together, we can spread awareness and provide support to those in need. Book online or call our clinic today to book your appointment with one of our expert clinicians. Let us help you find relief and get back to your daily activities without pain.

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With care,

Therapy X Collective