Exercise Archives - Page 44 of 56 - Baudry Therapy Center

Golfer’s Elbow, It’s not just for golfers

Golfer’s elbow, like tennis elbow, is a common problem seen not only in golfers, but tennis players, throwers and even carpenters. Golfer’s Elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is defined as an inflammatory process involving the the muscles/tendons in the inside of the forearm that flex or bend the elbow and wrist. This condition is characterized by pain in the area of the inside of the elbow and forearm. These symptoms are usually made worse with gripping activities, and impact activities like hitting golf balls or tennis balls.

There can be many causes for golfer’s elbow. Most commonly I’ve seen it as the result of an overuse type injury.

The good news is that with proper diagnosis and a good treatment plan these conditions usually resolve. But don’t wait to see if your symptoms will go away on their own, take action.

My recommendations for when you think you have golfer’s elbow are to:

1) See your physician for proper diagnosis. He/she will be able to diagnose your problem and present options for recovery.

2) See your physical therapist for evaluation and treatment. Physical therapists can uncover the contributing factors leading to the problem and develop a comprehensive program to promote healing and return to the game.

One of the most beneficial treatment approaches for golfer’s elbow that we have used in our clinic is ASTYM. ASTYM is a system of treatment that stimulates soft tissue healing through coordinated deep soft tissue mobilization and reconditioning. This system has proven to provide an ideal environment for healing. For best PT results find a therapist that uses ASTYM.

Additional keys to treating golfer’s elbow:

Early intervention. Seek out the advice of a medical professional as soon as symptoms are recognized. Do not assume the problem will just go away.
Make sure you clearly understand the injury and why it is happening.
Consult medical professionals you trust and who can provide you with a clear plan for recovery. Your treatment should involve a strategy to decrease pain and promote healing while addressing the causes and promoting reconditioning of the damaged tissue. You need a plan that will get you back in the game.
Work with your tennis or golf professional for technique management and proper equipment fitting. Faulty mechanics and inappropriate equipment can definitely contribute to the problem.

For more information on golfer’s elbow and appropriate treatment options please feel free to respond to this blog, email or call us at 504 841 0150.

Loss of Strength in Men, Leads to Loss of Function

Sarcopenia is defined as the age associated loss of strength and muscle mass. Sarcopenia affects us all, as we age. Starting as early as the mid to late 30’s, it is common to see a slow loss in strength. This gradual loss of strength is often associated with pain and eventually a loss of function. It appears that for men, the strength loss occurs at a greater rate than it does for our women counterparts.

This scenario is seen over and over in our clinic. Men will come into the clinic with some sort of pain. This is usually a pain that they have been dealing with for a long time. They come through our doors because the pain has gotten so bad that it is interfering with the things they want to do, like playing golf, tennis, or even working. Upon evaluation 2 things quickly become apparent:

there is a loss of mobility
lack of strength/stability

Strength loss can significantly affect your ability to do the things you like to do. If you have given up on some of your favorite activities, have trouble competing at the same level, or are looking to prevent this from happening to you, try strength training.

Here are some tips to get you started:

To get stronger you need resistance exercises. Generally you should select a resistance that you are able to do about 8-12 repetitions.
Slower is better than faster. Lift the weight slowly and with good control. This will help you recruit more muscle fiber and reduce chances of injury.
Strength can be gained with as little as 1 set of an exercise, 1 to 2 times per week.
Allow for enough recovery time between workouts. I like at least 48 hour recovery period. In general, the harder you work out the longer the recovery needed.
Body weight exercises are great. Exercises like push ups, pull ups and bridges can be an effective, inexpensive option. Remember to perform the exercises slowly. If these are too hard to complete 8-12 reps, modify the exercise to make it easier.
Weight machines are another way to get started with strength training. Use a variety of machines to promote muscle balance. Choose a resistance that you can complete 8-12 slow repetitions.
Use good form and don’t work into pain.
For best results you should consult a professional to specifically design your program. There are many things that go into effective strength training. A physical therapist or exercise physiologist are ideal to fit your specific needs.

For additional information on strength training or the programs here at Baudry Therapy Center please feel free to comment or contact our office at 504 841 0150.

Category: Exercise

Golfer’s Elbow, It’s not just for golfers

Loss of Strength in Men, Leads to Loss of Function

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