Any time repetitive motion is performed, it can result in continual strain and discomfort. Medial epicondylitis, more commonly known as golfer’s elbow, can cause pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm to the elbow. The condition is typically caused by repeated stress from sports or weight training and is similar to tennis elbow. However, while tennis elbow affects the outside of the elbow, golfer’s elbow impacts the inside. Neither of these conditions is limited to athletes, though. Today, many cases of tennis and golfer’s elbow are due to computer usage and other repetitive strain injuries. Dr. Gregg A. Vagner specializes in treatments for the elbow at our Cedar Park, TX, and Austin-area office locations and can relieve your symptoms through physical therapy, medications, or surgery.
The pain associated with golfer’s elbow may be acute or chronic, mild or severe. If an injury has occurred, symptoms may develop suddenly. If repetitive overuse is the culprit, the discomfort may develop gradually over time. Some of the most common symptoms associated with golfer’s elbow include:
Discomfort typically worsens when certain movements are performed, such as:
Dr. specializes in treatments for the elbow and can relieve your symptoms through physical therapy, medications, or surgery.
The primary cause of golfer’s elbow is overuse. Repetitive movements can lead to small tears in the tendon, which result in pain and inflammation. Sports such as golf, tennis, baseball, rowing, or weight lifting carry a greater risk for this type of injury, especially if athletes do not warm up appropriately beforehand. Additionally, certain professions are risk factors for golfer’s elbow. For example, you are more likely to develop the condition if you are a:
There are several treatments available for addressing golfer’s elbow. At Orthopaedic Specialists of Austin, Dr. Vagner often recommends:
During a consultation at our practice, Dr. Vagner can help determine which treatment option will be the most effective for your situation.
If you are suffering from pain, weakness, or stiffness due to golfer’s elbow, our specialists can help. To explore your treatment options, schedule a consultation at our practice. Contact us online anytime, call (512) 476-2830, or visit us at one of our three office locations.