Golfer's Elbow

The criteria for returning to golf are when tenderness in the medial epicondyle disappears, there is no pain during resistance testing, and daily grip strength has recovered to at least 80% of normal. When returning, it is recommended to increase grip thickness by 0.5 to 1 inch and use shock-absorbing grips (rubber or foam materials). A gradual return is safe, starting with 70% of your swing speed and increasing it by 10% every two weeks. Wearing an elbow counterforce brace can reduce the load on the tendon origin by 20–30%. Perspective of a Korean Medicine Clinic The decision to return to exercise must consider not only the pain level but also the degree of recovery in meridian Qi and blood circulation. Even if pain subsides, applying strong impacts while blood stasis has not been completely resolved carries a high risk of re-injury to the tendons. During competition preparation, it is recommended to conduct intensive treatment by increasing the frequency of moxibustion and pharmacopuncture, and to combine this with management using acupuncture and cupping to relieve meridian tension before and after the match. During the recovery phase, enhancing tendon durability with constitution-tailored herbal medicine that replenishes liver blood can lower the likelihood of recurrence after returning.