Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation where the tendons of the forearm attach to the inner elbow. If left untreated, it can lead to chronic pain and limited arm function. Fortunately, shockwave therapy offers a non-invasive, evidence-based solution for treating golfer’s elbow. This guide explores how shockwave therapy for golfer’s elbow in Pittsburgh can accelerate healing and provide lasting relief.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow is a condition characterized by pain, tenderness, and stiffness on the inside of the elbow. Despite its name, this condition is not exclusive to golfers—it affects anyone who performs repetitive gripping, wrist flexion, or forearm pronation, such as tennis players, weightlifters, and manual laborers.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
● Repetitive stress from gripping, lifting, or throwing
● Poor wrist and forearm mechanics during sports or work activities
● Weak or tight forearm muscles
● Overuse from high-intensity training or repetitive movements
● Inadequate warm-up and stretching before activities
Golfer’s Elbow: Causes, Symptoms and When It Occurs
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is an overuse injury that affects the tendons attaching your forearm muscles to the inside of your elbow. These tendons are responsible for bending your wrist and fingers toward your palm.
Causes:
The primary cause of golfer’s elbow is repetitive stress and overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. Activities that involve repetitive gripping, wrist flexion, and forearm pronation (rotating the forearm palm-down) can put excessive strain on these structures, leading to inflammation and pain.
Common activities that can cause golfer’s elbow include:
● Golfing (especially with improper swing mechanics)
● Tennis and other racket sports
● Weightlifting and other strength training exercises
● Manual labor jobs involving repetitive arm movements (e.g., carpentry, plumbing, construction)
● Typing and other computer-related activities
How Golf Causes Golfer’s Elbow
The repetitive swinging motion in golf places significant stress on the tendons of the forearm, particularly the flexor tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus. Several biomechanical factors contribute to the development of golfer’s elbow:
● Repetitive Wrist Flexion and Pronation – The golf swing involves repeated wrist flexion and pronation, which puts strain on the flexor muscles and tendons. Over time, this excessive stress can lead to microtears and inflammation in the tendons.
● Improper Swing Mechanics – A flawed golf swing, including excessive wrist movement or poor follow-through, can lead to increased stress on the inner elbow. Improper mechanics force the forearm muscles to overcompensate, increasing the risk of tendon irritation.
● Overuse and Overtraining – Frequent practice, especially without adequate rest, increases the likelihood of developing golfer’s elbow. Repeated impact from striking the ball (or the ground) places continuous strain on the flexor tendons, leading to cumulative stress injuries.
● Grip and Equipment Factors – A grip that is too tight or a club that is too heavy can contribute to excessive forearm muscle activation, further straining the tendons. Playing with improper equipment can exacerbate stress on the elbow.
● Lack of Flexibility and Strength Imbalances – Weak forearm and grip muscles, combined with tightness in the wrist flexors, can make the tendons more vulnerable to injury. A lack of flexibility in the wrist and forearm limits shock absorption, increasing stress on the elbow joint.
Symptoms:
The most common symptom of golfer’s elbow is pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow. This pain may radiate down the forearm and into the wrist. Other symptoms include:
● Stiffness in the elbow joint
● Weakness in the hand and wrist
● Numbness or tingling in the fingers
● Difficulty gripping or holding objects
When It Occurs:
Golfer’s elbow typically develops gradually over time due to repetitive stress. The pain may start as mild and intermittent, but it can worsen with continued activity. In some cases, the pain may become severe and constant, making it difficult to perform everyday tasks.
What It Feels Like:
The pain associated with golfer’s elbow is often described as a dull ache or a burning sensation on the inside of the elbow. It may be aggravated by activities that involve gripping, twisting, or flexing the wrist. Some people also experience a feeling of weakness or instability in the affected arm.
Understanding Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow
Shockwave therapy, also called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT), is a cutting-edge treatment that uses acoustic waves to stimulate healing in damaged tendons and soft tissues. It has been widely researched and is recognized for its effectiveness in treating chronic musculoskeletal conditions like golfer’s elbow.
How Shockwave Therapy Works
Shockwave therapy helps alleviate golfer’s elbow pain by:
● Increasing blood circulation to the injured area, promoting faster recovery
● Stimulating collagen production for tendon repair
● Breaking down calcifications and scar tissue that may hinder healing
● Reducing inflammation and pain by inhibiting pain receptors and stimulating natural healing responses
Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow
Shockwave therapy for golfer’s elbow in Pittsburgh is becoming an increasingly popular treatment due to its multiple advantages:
● Non-surgical and drug-free – No need for invasive procedures or long-term medication use.
● Quick and effective – Many patients notice pain reduction and functional improvement within a few sessions.
● Stimulates natural healing – Encourages the body to repair damaged tendons and tissues without external intervention.
● Short treatment sessions – Each session typically lasts 10-20 minutes, making it a convenient option.
● Minimal downtime – You can resume most daily activities shortly after treatment.
The Shockwave Therapy Treatment Process
A typical shockwave therapy session for golfer’s elbow includes the following steps:
1. Initial Evaluation – A healthcare professional assesses your symptoms and medical history to confirm the diagnosis.
2. Preparation – A conductive gel is applied to the treatment area for better transmission of shockwaves.
3. Shockwave Application – A handheld device delivers targeted acoustic waves to the affected tendons.
4. Post-Treatment Care – Your provider will provide specific recovery guidelines and recommend follow-up treatments if necessary.
Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?
Shockwave therapy is ideal for individuals experiencing chronic golfer’s elbow pain that has not responded to conservative treatments such as rest, physical therapy, bracing, or anti-inflammatory medications. It is particularly beneficial for active individuals looking to avoid surgery and return to sports or work quickly.
Consulting a Professional
Before undergoing shockwave therapy for golfer’s elbow in Pittsburgh, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare provider. They will assess your condition and determine whether this treatment is the best option for you.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
Shockwave therapy is a safe and well-tolerated procedure, but some patients may experience mild side effects, including:
● Temporary discomfort during or after treatment
● Minor swelling or redness at the treatment site
● Occasional bruising, which typically resolves within a few days
Recovery and Aftercare
To maximize the benefits of shockwave therapy and support proper healing, follow these aftercare recommendations:
● Modify Activity Levels – Avoid repetitive gripping and strenuous arm movements for a few days post-treatment.
● Apply Ice if Necessary – Use cold therapy to reduce any minor swelling or discomfort.
● Follow Your Provider’s Guidelines – Stick to any recommended physical therapy exercises or mobility drills.
Where to Get Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow in Pittsburgh
If you’re searching for an effective, non-invasive solution for golfer’s elbow, Dr. Alex Tauberg at The Pittsburgh Chiropractor is a leading provider of shockwave therapy in Pittsburgh. Dr. Tauberg is a Primary Spine Practitioner, Board-Certified Sports Chiropractor, and Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist with extensive experience in treating sports-related injuries, including golfer’s elbow. His clinic is dedicated to evidence-based, conservative care that helps patients achieve long-lasting relief and optimal recovery.
At The Pittsburgh Chiropractor, Dr. Tauberg employs state-of-the-art shockwave therapy technology combined with a personalized approach to treatment. Unlike many providers, he integrates shockwave therapy with rehabilitation strategies, manual therapy, and strength training to ensure the best possible outcomes for his patients. His expertise in sports chiropractic and musculoskeletal care makes him uniquely qualified to help athletes, active individuals, and professionals recover from golfer’s elbow quickly and effectively.
The clinic is conveniently located in Pittsburgh and offers a patient-centered experience, ensuring you receive high-quality care tailored to your specific needs. With a track record of success in treating chronic tendon injuries, Dr. Tauberg is the go-to expert for shockwave therapy in the area.
Take the Next Step Towards Pain Relief
Golfer’s elbow can be a persistent and frustrating condition, but shockwave therapy offers a proven path to recovery. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Alex Tauberg at The Pittsburgh Chiropractor today to explore how this advanced treatment can help you regain pain-free function and return to your favorite activities without limitations.