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Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) is a painful inflammatory condition that not only afflicts golfers but can be experienced by anyone who overuse the muscles and tendons in the forearm through repetitive activity such as flexing, gripping or swinging. This, as a result, causes pulls or tiny tears in the tendons which typically do not enjoy good circulation in the first place and as such, have a greater tendency for injury.

Golfer’s elbow is not to be mistaken as tennis elbow. Even though both are forms of elbow tendinitis, the difference between them lies in the origin of damage. For Golfer’s elbow, the damage is in the tendons on the inside of the elbow, while the damage for tennis elbow is in the tendons on the outside of the elbow.

General symptoms:

• Difficulty holding onto objects
• Difficulty pinching or gripping objects
• Elbow pain & stiffness
• Weakness of wrist of affected elbow
• Minimal elbow movement
• Forearm tightness
• Tenderness on the medial side of the elbow

Acupuncture can be a very effective treatment for Golfer’s elbow.

In TCM, acupuncture works on the premise that humans have a natural flow of energy, Chi, throughout the body. When the pathways of the Chi, also known as meridians become blocked , pain is the most common result. This is akin to a dam being blocked and a restriction to its smooth flow.

In order to release such blockages, an acupuncturist would insert fine, sterile acupuncture needles into specific points on the body. From the western medicine point of view, this improves the blood circulation within the body, thereby speeding up the natural healing process of the injury site.

Acupuncture treatment, if executed by an experienced and well-trained acupuncturist should be painless. Results vary from individuals and usually one should see good results within 3 – 6 sessions.

Acupoints prescription: HT2, HT3, Ashi point

Dr. Wu Yue
TCM Physician