Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a common issue for active people, not only golfers. It happens when the tendons that connect your forearm to your elbow become injured. This causes pain on the inner side of your elbow. If it is not treated, this condition can make everyday tasks like lifting, gripping, or even typing hard to do.
If you are reading this, you are likely dealing with the discomfort of golfer’s elbow. The good news is that there are effective treatments to help you feel better and return to the activities you enjoy. This article will guide you through your options for the best treatment for golfer’s elbow.
1. Rest and Activity Modification
The first step to treating golfer’s elbow is to rest. Tendons need time to recover, and too much strain can make the injury worse. If your job or hobbies involve repeated arm motions, it is important to make some changes. This way, you can prevent more harm to your elbow.
Here are a few examples of what you can do:
- Spend less time doing activities that involve gripping or pulling.
- Try not to carry heavy items often.
- Pause sports like golf, tennis, or pitching until the swelling and pain improve.
2. Applying Ice Packs
Icing the affected area can help reduce swelling and pain. Apply an ice pack wrapped in a cloth to the inside of your elbow for 15-20 minutes, two to three times daily. Cold therapy works particularly well after any strenuous activity to control inflammation.
3. Pain Relief with Anti-inflammatory Medications
Using over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or naproxen can help relieve pain and swelling. These nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective for managing symptoms temporarily. However, they must be taken only as intended to avoid adverse side effects. Consider consulting a physician before prolonged use.
4. Physical Therapy and Stretching Exercises
Physical therapy is a reliable way to address tendon injuries over time. A trained physical therapist can create a plan just for you. This program will help make the muscles around your elbow stronger and more flexible. Building up your forearm muscles helps take pressure off the tendons.
Some common exercises include:
- Wrist curls: These help strengthen the muscles you use for gripping.
- Forearm stretches: These increase flexibility and aid in recovery.
- Eccentric wrist extension exercises: These gradually work the tendons to help them heal.
Your therapist will teach you how often to do these exercises and how to perform them correctly. This ensures your treatment works and lowers the chance of getting hurt again.
5. Use of Braces or Elbow Supports
Wearing a slotted brace or elbow strap can help by redistributing pressure away from the inflamed tendon. These assistive devices relieve strain during activities, providing additional protection for your elbow. You can find these supports at most drug stores or online retailers.
6. Corticosteroid Injections
For severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatments, corticosteroid injections may provide relief. They are administered by a medical professional. These injections target inflammation at the source, relieving pain and improving functionality. Keep in mind that this should be a short-term solution. It is important to understand that overuse of corticosteroids may have negative consequences.
7. Regenerative Medicine Treatments
Advancements in regenerative medicine offer new hope for tendon recovery. For instance, let’s look at platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. This treatment uses your body’s natural healing properties to treat golfer’s elbow. During PRP therapy, a small sample of your blood is processed to extract growth-factor-rich platelets. These are once again injected into the injured area, promoting healing.
Stem cell therapy is another innovative option that supports tissue repair. These treatments can be life-changing for chronic cases or those resistant to traditional care.
8. Surgical Intervention
Surgery for golfer’s elbow is effective, but your orthopedic doctor will likely only suggest it after trying other methods. Sometimes, golfer’s elbow symptoms persist despite six to twelve months of conservative treatment. If that is the case for you, your orthopedic surgeon may recommend a surgical procedure. This treatment will involve removing damaged tendon tissue.
You can rely on Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches for this. We specialize in providing advanced surgical options for complex tendon injuries. We will always ensure optimal recovery outcomes.
Treatment Success Hinges on Prevention
Recovering from golfer’s elbow is only part of the equation. Preventing recurrence is just as important as receiving appropriate treatment.
Following these preventive tips can protect your elbow health:
- Practice correct form in sports and physical activities.
- Use ergonomic tools at work to reduce strain on your arm muscles.
- Gradually increase activity intensity if you are beginning a new fitness routine.
The Best Treatment for Golfer’s Elbow in Boynton Beach, FL
Golfer’s elbow can be frustrating. However, with the right treatment, it is possible to return to full strength and lead a pain-free life. There are many treatment options for golfer’s elbow. They range from rest and rehabilitation to innovative therapies. With this article, you now have a better understanding of the best treatment options to address your symptoms.
If you are experiencing stubborn elbow pain, it may be time to seek professional care. You can trust Personalized Orthopedics of the Palm Beaches for personalized treatment. We are committed to helping you regain your mobility and strength. Call us at (561) 733-5888 or use our online appointment request form to connect with our team of experts today.
The best orthopedic doctors in Boynton Beach, FL, look forward to serving you!
