Are you aware that you can have a golfer’s elbow without actually having played golf? Golfer’s elbow starts as an aching pain, but without treatment can devolve into more serious pain. The pain may even radiate down the forearm and affect the hand causing gripping issues. What exactly causes golfer’s elbow and can acupuncture help?
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Tennis elbow and golfer’s
elbow are similar injuries. They just occur on opposite sides of the elbow. These are repetitive strain injuries with golfer’s elbow affecting the inside of the elbow. Medically it is known as medial epicondylitis.
Other repetitive sports like tennis, baseball, and bowling can lead to golfer’s elbow.
Additionally, those who have jobs that require repetitive movements are more likely to experience golfer’s elbow. This often includes painters, plumbers, construction workers, cooks, assembly-line workers, and those with high computer use.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow?
Symptoms of golfer’s elbow can come on gradually or suddenly. It can start as intermittent pain, but then become consistent. Certain movements, such as swinging a golf club, can worsen the pain.
Look for the following symptoms of golfer’s elbow:
- Pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow
- Pain will get worse with certain movements
- Stiffness in the elbow and making a fist can hurt
- Weakness in the hands and wrist
- Numbness and tingling in some fingers
Common Treatments for Golfer’s Elbow
There are a myriad of treatments for golfer’s elbow. Ice and bracing the elbow can help initially. Applying stretchy athletic tape to the inside of the elbow is another quick fix.
Using NSAIDS and tylenol is helpful.
Others suggest:
- Shockwave therapy
- Soft tissue treatments
- Exercising and physical therapy
- Acupuncture
- PRP (Platelet Rich Plasma)
The Value of Acupuncture for Golfer’s Elbow
Specifically, acupuncture is a non-toxic alternative to medications and shots. It reduces inflammation and relieves pain. The insertion of the needles has the effect of stimulating the release of endorphins which are natural pain numbing chemicals in our body.
Acupuncture stimulates the healing response in tendons and muscles, and only a few needles are needed to get the desired relief. In addition, it speeds up recovery time.
Many pain specialists recommend the use of acupuncture with physical therapy or hands on treatments. So yes, acupuncture can help golfer’s elbow.
If you are looking for a more natural approach, acupuncture is worth trying in order to get you back on the course come spring.
Contact The Acupuncture Clinic and find out if acupuncture is a good choice for your golfer’s elbow.