10 August 2025

Golfer’s Elbow and How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Golfer’s elbow—known medically as medial epicondylitis—is a painful condition that affects the inside of your elbow where the forearm tendons attach to the bone. Despite its name, you don’t have to be a golfer to get it.

Anyone who frequently grips, twists, or lifts objects can develop golfer’s elbow, especially if the motions are repetitive or done with poor form. Left untreated, it can limit your ability to work, play sports, or even do simple daily activities.

What Is Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow is caused by overuse or strain of the forearm muscles that control your grip and wrist movement. This overuse can lead to tiny tears in the tendon, resulting in inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

Common causes include:

Swinging a golf club or racket
Weightlifting with poor wrist form
Hammering, painting, or using hand tools
Typing or computer work with poor ergonomics
Repetitive gripping in sports or manual labor

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow

You might have golfer’s elbow if you notice:

Pain or tenderness on the inside of the elbow
Stiffness or reduced range of motion
Weak grip strength
Numbness or tingling radiating into the fingers
Pain that worsens with gripping or wrist flexion

How Chiropractic Care Can Help

Chiropractic care offers a natural, drug-free approach to easing the pain of golfer’s elbow while addressing the root cause of the problem.

1. Joint Adjustments

Misalignments in the wrist, elbow, shoulder, or spine can place extra stress on your tendons. Gentle chiropractic adjustments help restore proper joint movement and function.

2. Soft Tissue Therapy

Techniques like myofascial release, massage, or instrument-assisted therapy break up adhesions, improve circulation, and reduce muscle tightness in the forearm.

3. Nerve Function Support

If nerve irritation in the neck or upper back is contributing to forearm muscle dysfunction, spinal adjustments can help restore optimal nerve communication.

4. Stretching & Strengthening Guidance

Your chiropractor can provide exercises that improve flexibility in the forearm, strengthen supporting muscles, and prevent future strain.

5. Ergonomic & Activity Advice

Making small adjustments to your golf swing, work setup, or lifting technique can reduce stress on the elbow and promote healing.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Golfer’s Elbow

Relieves pain without medication
Restores strength and range of motion
Addresses the underlying cause, not just symptoms
Speeds recovery and reduces risk of re-injury
Supports overall joint and muscle health

When to Seek Chiropractic Care

If pain in your elbow persists for more than a few days, interferes with your activities, or is accompanied by weakness, a chiropractor can help pinpoint the source and design a personalized treatment plan.

Bottom line: Golfer’s elbow can sideline your work, hobbies, and sports. Chiropractic care offers a hands-on, holistic approach to relieve pain, restore function, and keep you active—without relying on medication.