Tennis / Golfer’s Elbow
Tennis or Golfer’s elbow are colloquial terms referring to an overuse injury that results in inflammation of the tendons in the forearm, making it difficult to lift and move the arm. The term Tennis Elbow refers to tendinitis along the outside of the elbow and affects the muscles & tendons that extend the wrist backward. Golfer’s elbow refers to tendinitis along the inside of the elbow and affects the muscles & tendons that curl the wrist inwards. While both conditions may result from the sport that they are named after, they generally are caused by overuse of the muscles & tendons of the forearm during other sports and activities, yard work, such as raking leaves, repetitive lifting, and even excessive typing on a computer. The name implies specificity to the elbow; however, pain may be felt throughout the entire upper extremity.
To learn more about tennis or golfer’s elbow and how we can help treat it, contact ProAction Physical Therapy in Lansdale, PA today!
How do I know if I have Tennis or Golfer’s elbow?
Patients who experience tennis or golfer’s elbow typically report pain around the bony part of the extremity, just above the outside or inside of the elbow. The terms for these bony prominences are “lateral or medial epicondyle.” These areas may be tender to touch, and you may experience weakness and/or an inability to perform normal activities of daily living, such as lifting a cup of coffee or reaching for something on a shelf.
Any activity, such as gripping or repeated grasping, can strain the tendon attachments to the lateral or medial epicondyle. The most common age group to develop this condition is between 30-60 years of age, although it can occur in younger and older patients.
How can I find relief for my tennis/golfer’s elbow?
A physical therapist can provide conservative methods to help treat tennis/golfer’s elbow. The goal of physical therapy is to help you return to your normal work, home, and sports activities, free of pain. Your physical therapist can help identify what activities might be aggravating your symptoms and will discuss any activity modifications you may need to make.
Postural exercises are emphasized, along with stretching and strengthening of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. Modalities may be utilized, such as heat, cold laser, iontophoresis, ultrasound, and massage. Orthotics for the wrist may also be recommended as your physical therapist deems fit, in order to rest the wrist muscles.
If you believe you may be experiencing tennis or golfer’s elbow, don’t hesitate to contact ProAction Physical Therapy in Lansdale, PA today! Our experienced physical therapists will provide you with the care you need, so you can get back to your normal life.
