Golf elbow

Golfer’s elbow is a condition that causes pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow due to overuse or strain of the tendons connecting the forearm muscles. Despite its name, it affects not only golfers but also people doing repetitive wrist or arm movements. In Ayurveda, it is mainly linked to aggravated Vata causing pain and stiffness, along with Pitta involvement leading to inflammation.

Common Causes of Golf elbow

Repetitive stress from activities like golfing, throwing, typing, or lifting.
Overuse of forearm flexor muscles leading to tendon strain.
Improper posture or technique in sports or work.
Vata aggravation weakening joints and tendons.
Pitta imbalance contributing to inflammation and swelling.

Symptoms of Golf elbow

Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow.
Stiffness and discomfort when making a fist or gripping objects.
Weakness in the wrist and forearm.
Pain worsening with lifting, twisting, or flexing the wrist.
Radiating pain toward the forearm or wrist.

Ayurveda’s Approach to Healing Golf elbow

Balances Vata-Pitta with nourishing and anti-inflammatory therapies.
Uses abhyanga (oil massage) with Mahanarayan or Kottamchukkadi taila.
Applies swedana (steam therapy) and herbal lepas to relieve stiffness.
Prescribes guggulu, ashwagandha, and shallaki for tendon healing.
Advises rest, ergonomic correction, and gentle yoga/physiotherapy exercises.