Golfers Elbow

Despite its name, golfer's elbow does not only affect those on the local courses in Palm Desert or Coachella, CA. Technically known as medial epicondylitis, this condition involves inflammation or irritation of the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. Whether it results from a repetitive golf swing, weightlifting, or occupational strain, the resulting pain can make gripping a club, or even a coffee mug, difficult. At Coachella Valley Neck & Back Clinic, Gregory D. Yeend, DC, provides a comprehensive approach to managing this common overuse injury.

Identifying the Symptoms of Medial Epicondylitis 
The primary indicator of golfer's elbow is tenderness and pain centered on the inner side of the elbow, which can sometimes radiate down the forearm. You might also notice stiffness in the joint, weakness in your hands or wrists, or a tingling sensation in your ring and pinky fingers. Gregory D. Yeend, DC, evaluates the mechanics of your arm and shoulder to determine if the strain is localized or if it results from a broader misalignment in the upper body.

Chiropractic Adjustments for Joint Function 
While the pain is felt in the soft tissue, joint dysfunction in the wrist, elbow, or even the cervical spine often contributes to the problem. If these joints are restricted, the muscles of the forearm must work harder to compensate, leading to inflammation. Gregory D. Yeend, DC, performs precise chiropractic adjustments to restore proper motion to these joints. By improving the alignment of the entire arm, we reduce the abnormal pull on the tendons, allowing the healing process to begin.

Electrical Interferential Therapy for Pain and Swelling 
To manage acute inflammation and speed up recovery, we offer electrical interferential therapy at our Palm Desert and Coachella offices. This treatment sends low-frequency electrical currents deep into the soft tissues around the elbow. The therapy helps stimulate blood flow, reduces swelling, and blocks pain signals to the brain. It is an effective, non-invasive way to calm the irritated nerves and tissues associated with golfer's elbow, making it easier for you to participate in rehabilitative exercises.

Trigger Point Therapy for Muscle Recovery 
Repetitive strain often leads to the development of trigger points, tight, painful knots in the muscles that can refer pain to other areas. Gregory D. Yeend, DC, uses trigger point therapy to release these contractions in the forearm and shoulder muscles. By applying directed pressure to these specific points, we encourage the muscle fibers to relax and lengthen. This reduces the constant tension on the medial epicondyle, providing significant relief from the chronic tugging that characterizes golfer's elbow.

Reclaiming Your Performance in Coachella Valley 
Managing golfer's elbow requires a combination of clinical care and activity modification. Gregory D. Yeend, DC, works with residents of Palm Desert and Coachella, CA, to develop strategies that prevent re-injury, such as refining your grip or improving your swing mechanics. Our goal at Coachella Valley Neck & Back Clinic is to help you return to the activities you enjoy without the limitation of chronic elbow pain. To schedule an appointment, call our office in Palm Desert at (760) 346-5660 or in Coachella at (760) 391-5265.