Golfer’s Elbow Specialist in Illinois
Dealing with golfer’s elbow? Turn to Suburban Orthopaedics for expert care. Our experienced sports medicine specialists are ready to assess your condition and guide you through a personalized recovery plan.
Board-Certified Orthopedic Elbow Specialist in Bartlett, Elgin, Schaumburg, and Chicago, IL
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation inside the elbow. While it’s frequently associated with golfers due to the sport’s repetitive wrist and forearm motions, this condition can affect anyone who performs repetitive gripping or wrist-flexing activities, whether in sports, work, or daily life. Early diagnosis and targeted treatment with the board-certified orthopedic experts at Suburban Orthopedics are key to relieving pain and restoring function.
What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle, the bony bump on the inner side of your elbow, become irritated or inflamed due to repetitive stress. Movements that require repeated wrist flexion, gripping, or forearm rotation can strain the tendons over time. This injury is common in athletes who play golf, baseball, or tennis, or in those who weightlift, but it’s also seen in workers who frequently use tools, lift heavy objects, or type for extended periods.
What Are the Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow?
The most noticeable symptom of golfer’s elbow is pain or tenderness along the inside, which may radiate down the forearm. You may also experience stiffness, weakness in your hand or wrist, and difficulty with activities that require gripping or lifting. Pain may worsen with certain motions, especially when flexing the wrist or turning the palm downward. Sometimes, numbness or tingling can be felt in the ring and little fingers.
Can I Treat Golfer’s Elbow at Home?
Some patients can manage golfer’s elbow at home with simple strategies, especially if caught early. Resting the affected arm and avoiding activities that trigger pain is the first step toward healing. Applying ice packs to the elbow can help reduce inflammation. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications may also offer relief. Stretching and strengthening exercises can gradually restore function, but these should be introduced under the guidance of a medical provider to avoid aggravating the injury. While home care can be helpful, ongoing or worsening pain should be evaluated by your Suburban Orthopaedics specialist.
Does Golfer’s Elbow Go Away on Its Own?
Some cases of golfer’s elbow may improve with rest and conservative care, but the condition does not always resolve without proper treatment. Continuing repetitive activity without addressing the underlying cause can lead to chronic pain or tendon degeneration. Early medical intervention ensures the condition is treated appropriately before it worsens or becomes more difficult to manage. Left untreated, golfer’s elbow can limit arm function and affect performance in both sports and daily activities.
Should I See an Orthopedic Specialist for Golfer’s Elbow?
If you’re experiencing persistent elbow pain, reduced grip strength, or difficulty performing everyday tasks, it’s time to see an orthopedic specialist. A thorough evaluation can confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, such as nerve compression or joint issues. If symptoms do not improve with initial care, your provider may recommend physical therapy and modifications such as slings or bracing. Patients who don’t respond to physical therapy or lifestyle modifications may require surgery to repair the damaged tendons.
Don’t let elbow pain interfere with your performance or quality of life. Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief and recovery.
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