Luke is an avid weekend-warrior golfer from the East Coast who plays golf more than he cares to admit.
Golfer’s elbow is a common condition of arthritis that affects many golfers and other athletes who use their wrists and fingers regularly. The pain and discomfort associated with golfer’s elbow and arthritis can be debilitating, and many people turn to braces for relief.
In the rest of this article, we will explore the benefits of golfer’s elbow braces, how to choose the right brace, and some of the best elbows and products available on the market today.
What Is Golfer’s Elbow?
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a type of repetitive strain injury that affects the inner side of the elbow. It is caused by damage to the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow & Elbow Pain
The most common symptoms of golfer’s elbow include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, stiffness in the elbow joint and muscle, and weakness in the elbow pain wrist lower arm, and hand. These symptoms can be aggravated by gripping, lifting, or bending the arm.
Golfer’s elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons in the forearm muscles and tendon that attach to the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow called the medial epicondyle.
Anatomy:
The forearm muscles responsible for flexing the arm, wrist and fingers attach to the medial epicondyle via tendons, which allow for movement and stability of the elbow joint. The tendons affected in golfer’s elbow are the flexor tendons, which originate from the medial epicondyle and travel down the forearm to attach to the hand, wrist and fingers.
Pathophysiology:
Golfer’s elbow is caused by repetitive or forceful movements of the wrist and fingers, which overuse can lead to micro-tears in the flexor tendons at the point where they attach to the medial epicondyle. Over time, these micro-tears can cause inflammation and pain in the affected area. It is an injury most commonly seen in golfers due to the repetitive gripping and swinging of the club, but can also occur in other sports such as baseball, tennis, and weightlifting, or as a result of occupational activities that involve repetitive gripping or use of the wrist and fingers.
Symptoms:
Symptoms of golfer’s elbow typically include pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, which can radiate down the forearm to the wrist and fingers. The pain and numbness may worsen with gripping or lifting objects, or with movements that require flexion of the wrist and fingers. In severe cases, there may be weakness in the affected arm or hand and difficulty performing daily activities.
Treatment:
Treatment for golfer’s elbow usually involves a combination of pain relief via rest, ice, and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce pain and inflammation. Physical therapy exercises may also be recommended to improve flexibility and strength of the affected muscles and tendons. In some cases, a brace or splint may be used to provide support and reduce strain on the affected area. In severe cases that do not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary to repair the damaged tendons.
Benefits of Golfer’s Elbow Braces
Golfer’s elbow braces when you wear them can provide support, pressure and compression to the affected area, which can help to reduce pain, pressure and inflammation. They can also improve blood flow to the area, which can promote the healing process.
Choosing the Right Golfer’s Elbow Brace
When choosing a golfer back brace or doctor’s elbow brace, it is important to consider the level of support you need, as well as the fit and comfort of the brace. Look for a brace that is adjustable and fits snugly around your body and the affected area.
Tennis Elbow or Golfers Elbow Brace?
Tennis elbow supports and braces are also designed to provide support and compression to the affected area, but they are specifically designed to target the outer side of the elbow. Like golfer’s shoulders and elbow braces, there are several different types of tennis elbow supports and braces available, including compression sleeves, forearm straps, and elbow braces.
Top Products for Tennis Elbow Braces
Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace
McDavid Tennis Elbow Brace
Tomight Elbow Brace
Simien Tennis Elbow Brace
POWERLIX Elbow Brace
Top Products for Golfer’s Elbow Braces
Mueller Sports Medicine Green Fitted Brace
McDavid Tennis Elbow Brace
Bauerfeind EpiTrain Elbow Brace
Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace
Pro-Tec Athletics Elbow Sleeve
Mueller Sports Medicine Green Fitted Brace:
Pros:
Provides firm and comfortable support to the elbow joint
Adjustable straps for a customized fit
Made of breathable and moisture-wicking material
Can be worn during various physical activities
Cons:
Some users have reported discomfort during extended wear
May not provide enough compression for severe cases of golfers elbow
McDavid Tennis Elbow Brace:
Pros:
Adjustable strap for a customized fit
Provides targeted compression to the affected area
Made of breathable and moisture-wicking material
Can be worn during various physical activities
Cons:
May not provide enough support for severe cases of golfers elbow
Some users have reported discomfort during extended wear
Bauerfeind EpiTrain Elbow Brace:
Pros:
Provides targeted compression and support to the elbow joint
Made of breathable and moisture-wicking material
Can be worn during various physical activities
Designed for both tennis and golfers elbow
Cons:
Higher price point compared to other braces
May not fit comfortably for all users
Kunto Fitness Elbow Brace:
Pros:
Provides targeted compression and support to the elbow joint
Made of breathable and moisture-wicking material
Can be worn during various physical activities
Adjustable strap for a customized fit
Cons:
Some users have reported discomfort during extended wear
May not provide enough support for severe cases of golfers elbow
Pro-Tec Athletics Elbow Sleeve:
Pros:
Made of comfortable and breathable material
Provides targeted compression to the elbow joint
Can be worn during various physical activities
Cons:
May not provide enough support for severe cases of golfers elbow
Does not have adjustable straps for a customized fit
Based on these factors, the BBauerfeind EpiTrain Elbow Brace gets our vote to be the best option for treating golfers elbow.
It provides targeted compression and support to the affected area and is made of breathable and moisture-wicking material.
While it may be more expensive than other options, the added support and benefits make it worth the investment. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations, support and treatment options.
Golfer’s Elbow Brace: Golf Injuries
In conclusion, golfer’s elbow can be a painful and frustrating condition much like tennis elbow, but with the right brace, you can find relief and get back to the activities of tennis and golf you love. Whether you choose best brace with a compression sleeve or a more supportive brace, there are plenty of options available to help you manage your symptoms and get back to your best self.
When to Consult with a Healthcare Professional
If you are experiencing golfers elbow or any other painful condition, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional like a doctor or a physical therapist, perhaps even a doctor of physical therapy. They can provide personalized recommendations and treatment options, and can help you determine the best course of action for your specific needs and injuries. Golf elbow is super uncomfortable and golf is about avoiding painful injuries and conditions!
