Golfer’s elbow is a pain on the inside of the elbow, right near the bone. It happens when the muscles that attach on the inside of the elbow get irritated. This injury is annoying and something that you feel every time you grab something or move your arm. Not only does it interfere with higher level activities like CrossFit or golf, it interferes with normal activities like picking up a glass of water, typing on a computer, or opening a door.
Why Use Dry Needling for Golfer’s Elbow?
Dry needling works well to get golfer’s elbow pain to calm down. We use it to decrease tension in the forearm and wrist muscles that attach on the inside of the elbow. Dry needling is also effective at reducing pain, improving mobility, and promoting increased blood flow and healing to the injured area. Stretching and strengthening around the elbow is not always effective. If you have tried some wrist curls and stretches without any success, then it may be time for a different approach.
When to Use Dry Needling for Golfer’s Elbow
Injuries like golfer’s elbow are due to overuse. The muscles that attach on the inner elbow are constantly getting used and irritated. Dry needling is one way to break that cycle and start healing. The areas in the arm that we most often needle are the wrist flexors, finger flexors, pronator teres, and biceps. Getting the irritated muscles to relax and calm down is the first step in treating golfer’s elbow. Dry needling is an effective way to accomplish that.
Once things are calmed down, you still need to address the root cause that led to the irritation in the first place. Common issues we see in our clinic are limited shoulder mobility and/or strength or a big increase in gripping activities. Issues in the neck can also cause pain at the elbow, so the neck also needs to be assessed. If the underlying cause is not addressed, then the golfer’s elbow will come back.
Interested in Dry Needling for Golfer’s Elbow?
If you’ve been dealing with golfer’s elbow and not getting the results you want, then dry needling may be a great option. It can help you get some immediate relief and get the rehab process started on the right path.
If you are in or near Oconomowoc, WI and frustrated with golfer’s elbow, reach out to us! It is something we see frequently and get great results. We would love to help you get rid of your golfer’s elbow for good!
Want to see more articles like this one? Sign up below!