Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common condition that affects golfers and other individuals who repeatedly use their wrists and hands. It is characterized by pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow, and it can significantly impact a person’s ability to grip and swing a golf club.
So, the question arises: will golfer’s elbow go away on its own?
The short answer is yes, golfer’s elbow has the potential to go away on its own, but the timeframe for recovery can vary from person to person. It can take anywhere from several weeks to several months for the pain and inflammation to subside completely.
The key to recovery lies in understanding the causes and taking appropriate steps to alleviate the symptoms and promote healing.
Golfer’s elbow is primarily caused by repetitive stress on the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. This repetitive stress can occur from activities like golfing, playing tennis, or even performing everyday tasks that involve gripping and lifting.
The first line of treatment for golfer’s elbow involves resting and avoiding the activities that aggravate the condition. By giving the tendons time to heal, the inflammation can subside, and the pain will gradually diminish.
Applying ice to the affected area can also help reduce inflammation and relieve the pain. Ice should be applied for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the initial stages of the injury.
Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can be used to manage the pain and reduce inflammation. However, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
In addition to rest and pain management, stretching and strengthening exercises can be beneficial in relieving golfer’s elbow symptoms and aiding in recovery. These exercises should be done under the guidance of a medical professional or a qualified physical therapist to ensure they are being performed correctly and safely.
Physical therapy may also be recommended to address the underlying causes of golfer’s elbow and to improve strength and flexibility in the forearm muscles. This can involve exercises, manual therapy techniques, and potentially the use of braces or other supportive devices.
While these conservative treatments are typically effective in resolving golfer’s elbow, there are cases where more advanced interventions may be necessary. In rare instances, corticosteroid injections may be given to reduce inflammation and provide more immediate pain relief. However, this should be used sparingly as repeated injections can weaken the tendon and delay healing.
Surgical intervention is considered a last resort for golfer’s elbow and is typically only recommended when conservative treatments have failed to provide relief. Surgery involves removing the damaged tissue, repairing any tears, and reattaching the healthy tendon to the bone.
In conclusion, golfer’s elbow is a condition that has the potential to go away on its own with time and appropriate management. However, it is essential to seek medical advice to develop an individualized treatment plan based on the severity and duration of symptoms.
With rest, ice, pain management, and the proper exercises, most individuals will experience relief and a gradual resolution of their symptoms. It is crucial to be patient and allow the body the time it needs to heal properly. By doing so, golfers, and individuals suffering from golfer’s elbow, can look forward to getting back on the course or engaging in their desired activities pain-free once again.