Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Here you will get an overview of the pathology, the ability to treat diseases with Oriental medicine, and with acupressure therapies along with other therapies combined.

The information is updated gradually and regularly. For reference only, not a substitute for your doctor.

Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the elbow. It is a type of repetitive strain injury that commonly affects golfers, but can also occur in other sports such as tennis, weightlifting, and throwing sports, as well as in non-sporting activities that involve repetitive wrist or hand movements.

Causes and risk factors

The primary cause of golfer's elbow is overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle. This overuse can occur from repetitive gripping, swinging, or throwing motions, as well as from other activities that involve repetitive wrist or hand movements. Other risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing golfer's elbow include poor technique, improper equipment, muscle imbalances, and underlying medical conditions such as arthritis or diabetes.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of golfer's elbow is pain on the inside of the elbow, which may radiate down the forearm. This pain is often exacerbated by activities that involve gripping or bending the wrist, such as shaking hands, lifting objects, or swinging a golf club or tennis racket. Other symptoms may include stiffness, weakness, and numbness or tingling in the affected arm.

Prevention and treatment

The best way to prevent golfer's elbow is to avoid or limit activities that involve repetitive gripping or bending of the wrist. It is also important to use proper technique and equipment when engaging in sports or other activities that involve the arms and hands. Strengthening and stretching exercises for the forearm muscles and tendons can also help prevent golfer's elbow.

Treatment for golfer's elbow typically involves rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medication to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy may also be recommended to help strengthen and stretch the affected muscles and tendons. In severe cases, corticosteroid injections or surgery may be necessary to relieve pain and restore function.

Oriental medicine

In Oriental medicine, golfer's elbow is believed to be caused by an imbalance in the body's energy or "qi" that affects the tendons and muscles of the elbow. Acupuncture and acupressure are commonly used to treat golfer's elbow by stimulating specific points on the body to restore the flow of qi and promote healing.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin needles into specific points on the body, while acupressure involves applying pressure to these same points with the fingers or hands. Both treatments are generally considered safe and effective for relieving pain and inflammation associated with golfer's elbow, although more research is needed to determine their long-term efficacy.

Conclusion

In conclusion, golfer's elbow is a common condition that can cause significant pain and discomfort for those who suffer from it. While prevention is always the best course of action, there are many effective treatments available for those who do develop this condition, including rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy, and Oriental medicine therapies such as acupuncture and acupressure. With proper care and treatment, most people with golfer's elbow are able to return to their normal activities without pain or discomfort.

References