The most common elbow problem is tennis elbow – pain on the outside of the elbow. Golfers elbow is similar but on the inside of the elbow. The medical name is epicondylalgia. Other conditions of the elbow are rehab post dislocations and fractures as well as biceps tendon injury and surgery.
What is tennis elbow and golfers elbow?
It is a tendinopathy or problem within the tendon. Most tendon problems at the elbow occur at the insertion to bone, but some occur mid-way along the tendon. Tenderness to touch indicates where the tendon problem exists. Elbow pain associated with gripping is the most common side effect of the problem.
What causes it?
Tendons normally are able to tolerate repeated pulling or tensile loads and recover with rest. The tendon problems occur when there is an imbalance between the amount of loading on a tendon and the rest periods. Without sufficient recovery time the tendon is not able to cope with the repeated pulling / tension and pain results. It does not usually result inflammation so anti-inflammatory medications aren’t the best option. It is more common as we get older as tendons need more recovery time, but it doesn’t always mean the problem is degenerative.
What can I do to help it?
• Early attention is important to prevent ongoing problems
• Address the activity that is overloading the tendon and resulting in pain
• Ensure sufficient rest from activity overload
• Ice application to the area of pain often helps
• Use of a support whilst doing activity can reduce load to the tendon
• See a physio and start a strength exercise to get the tendon to the level it needs to be for everyday work and home activity
