Golfers Elbow Treatment – An Overview of Common Methods

Golfers elbow is a condition caused by the inflammation of the tendons and ligaments in the inner elbow. Also known as medial epicondylitis, this condition is characterized by pain that radiates from the elbow down to the forearm. Pain and discomfort in the elbow area caused by common hand movements is also a sign of golfers elbow. The name suggests that it is an ailment that affects only people who play golf frequently. However, the condition is actually experienced by individuals who have not even touched a golf club in their lives. People who work as painters, carpenters, or even office workers who type a lot are susceptible to this condition. That is why it is important for people to know about the most common methods of golfers elbow treatment so that they would know what to do should the condition happen to them.

The most common method of golfers elbow treatment is RICE, or rest, ice, compression, and elevation. Once one feels the pain associated with the condition, one should immediately stop whatever one is doing and rest the arm. Ice packs should be applied on the affected area and can even be alternated with heat packs to reduce the swelling.

The next golfers elbow treatment is compression, in which one should apply a snug fitting bandage around the elbow so as put pressure on the area and lessen the pain. Elevation is the next step in this golfers elbow treatment, and one needs only to keep the arm above the heart level. Doing so also helps lessen the swelling and reduce the pain. Following all these steps immediately would make the condition less worse.

However, if the above golfers elbow treatment methods do not work, one can use over the counter drugs such as ibuprofen and paracetamol. These drugs work to make the inflammation subside and to numb the pain caused by the condition. If these drugs still do not produce the desired results and one still continues to feel pain, then it might be best to get a physician’s advice. They will either give stronger drugs or suggest other treatments that might help with the pain and discomfort caused by the condition.