Dart & Golfers Elbow
Apart from falls or a direct blow, lack of coordination and overuse produce the most injuries in the elbow. The elbow is also important for controlling wrist and finger movements. There are many different names for elbow injuries usually connected to there sport such as Dart thrower's elbow, Golfer's elbow, Tennis elbow and more. The funny thing is that you can have the same problem from too much D I Y or gardening!SYMPTOMS OF DART THROWER'S ELBOW
There is swelling around the tip of the elbow. In worse cases the tip of the elbow will look red and inflamed.
CAUSE OF DART THROWERS ELBOW
Overuse is usually the cause of Dart thrower's elbow because of the repeated flexing of the elbow whilst throwing darts. Another reason though is constantly having pressure on the elbow tips as in leaning on the bar in a pub!
TREATMENT FOR DART THROWER'S ELBOW
Avoid pressure on your elbow, follow the RICE procedure and rest it for a few days from any throwing action but gentle movements of the hand and wrist will help to keep your arm flexible until you resume playing darts. If you have severe pain and your elbow is very swollen and red, it is advised to see your doctor for antibiotics to clear up any infection.
SYMPTOMS OF GOLFER'S ELBOW
On the inner side of the elbow there is a bony knob which you can easily feel with your fingers. Pain is felt in this area which has become inflamed or you may have a pain going down you forearm when you try to grip anything or curl your fingers. It can also be painful to fully extend your arm.
CAUSE OF GOLFER'S ELBOW
Performing a golf swing is the usual cause of Golfer's elbow. The force on the muscle pulls on the tendons where they are attached to the bone and the tendons become inflamed in that area. There is also the forceful curl of the wrist, the pressure from the fingertips and the force of the palm facing down while bending the fingers.
TREATMENT AND RECOVERY FOR GOLFERS ELBOW
Use the RICE treatment as soon as pain is felt, but apply ice only for 5 minutes as there are nerves within the injured area. This will relieve pain and help to reduce swelling. Avoid any gripping action with the palm facing up and only use your fingers when necessary, I know this is easier said than done, but don't be tempted to polish the car or start sweeping the yard! If pain subsides after a day or two you can do gentle finger exercises. Stretch the fingers backward but stop when any pain starts, hold and then release. Continue daily until you feel you can resume your usual fitness routine but avoid grip strengthening and wrist curls.