Treatment approaches for chronic golfer’s elbows
Symptoms older than 6 months should always be confirmed by an MRI of the elbow, as partial tears of the common flexor tendon at the elbow may be present after this period of illness. If the above-mentioned conservative therapy measures do not work, there is still the possibility of X-ray stimulation radiation. Here, the X-rays are directed solely at the elbow.
The radiation exposure is lower with a 3 to 4 – times execution than with an X-ray of the elbow joint in 2 planes. Within the scope of extracorporeal shock wave therapy, ultrasound impulses are directed to the painful tendon attachments. This is a specific ultrasound device similar to a kidney stone crusher.
Success occurs in about 80% of all patients, but complications may occur during treatment. Pain in the epicondylar region, as well as injuries to small blood vessels and the resulting bruising, are examples. Information about the surgery of the golfer’s elbow can be found here.
Other forms of therapy used
Since there are innumerable moments of overload at most workplaces, which release one-sided loads and monotonous forced postures, Ergotherapeuten can cause pain easements with a gulf elbow by few, but purposeful changes. For example one can clearly lindern the pain of the gulf elbow/gulf arm by a hinged PC keyboard or a so called ergonomically formed keyboard, as well as an ergonomically worked computer mouse. Also within the handicraft range for example screwing in by hand can be replaced by an electrical screwdriver.
For general information, please see our topic: ErgotherapyAn immobilization of this kind is only necessary in exceptional cases of the golfer’s elbow. Total immobilization can lead to additional stiffening of the elbow and/or wrist joint. This would then also have an effect on muscles, tendons and ligaments, which could possibly shorten further.
Plaster immobilizations are increasingly being used less frequently, as studies have not been able to demonstrate a clear benefit. Other forms of therapy are: A clear positive effect could not yet be scientifically attributed to both forms of therapy. However, the shock wave therapy achieves a significant subjective relief of symptoms to freedom from symptoms in many patients.
- The magnetic field therapy and
- The Pulsating Signal Therapy
A “Botox” therapy is not a standard therapy for a golfer’s elbow. As with stretching therapy, the principle of action should be a temporary reduction in the tension of the muscles.Even if the treatment approach seems logical, this therapy has not yet been able to establish itself as a standard therapy. The reasons are certainly costs and an unfavorable risk-benefit ratio.
Further information is also available at Botulinum toxinLeech therapies are not among the standard therapies. Leeches release the active ingredient hirudin. This substance is said to have positive properties in the case of tendon insertion inflammation.
Unfortunately, it is not known whether a reliable study situation exists. A therapy probe cools the tendon insertion area down to 2 – 4°C for a few seconds. This effect should have a positive influence on the healing process. Unfortunately, the author is not aware of the data on this either.
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