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Pain around the elbow is a frequent complaint amongst golfers. Two of the most common causes of elbow pain are ‘tennis elbow’ and ‘golfer’s elbow’. Ironically, tennis elbow occurs 6 times more frequently than golfer’s elbow, usually affecting the lead arm.
Pain related to tennis elbow will be experienced around the outside part of the elbow, whereas pain associated with golfer’s elbow is felt on the inside of the upper part of the forearm or elbow. The most common symptoms are pain and weakness when gripping an object such as your club. The anatomical structures involved are the common extensor tendon in tennis elbow, and the common flexor tendon in golfer’s elbow. The extensor muscles bend the wrist backwards (extension) while the flexor muscles bend the wrist downwards (flexion).
Pain associated with tennis elbow can be a result of the pathological breakdown of the tendon. Essentially, there is a disruption of the collagen fibres that make up the tendon. This occurs where the extensor tendon attaches on the lateral, or outside part, of the elbow.
During the golf swing the wrist extensors maintain the lead wrist in a slightly extended position during the downswing and through impact. These extensors contract with a significant amount of force, thereby contributing to the breakdown of the extensor tendon at its origin.
A number of factors have been proposed to cause tennis elbow in golfers, including:
- Poor technique
- Overuse
- An unexpected sudden de-acceleration: such as hitting the ball fat or hitting hard ground
- Gripping the club too tight
- Prolonged hitting off mats
- Using grips that are slippery or worn
As initial symptoms are often mild, golfers (as is the case with many athletes), will continue to play, perpetuating the problem. The problem should be attended to immediately. Symptom progression can result in significant time away from golf.
If you do experience symptoms that you believe are ‘tennis elbow’ or ‘golfer’s elbow, rest for a few days and trial ice over the area. Gentle stretching may also assist. If there is no change within a week, we would recommend you contact Atlas Sports Physiotherapy for assessment and advice.
