Ever felt a nagging pain on the inside of your elbow when gripping a coffee mug or lifting a grocery bag? That's likely golfer's elbow—and no, you don't need to be teeing off regularly to experience it. This misunderstood condition affects countless people who've never set foot on a golf course.

Board-certified hand therapist Carl Petito breaks down what's actually happening when that tender spot on your inner elbow flares up. The pain stems from inflammation where your forearm muscles anchor to the medial epicondyle—that bony knob on the inside of your elbow. Every time you grip something tightly or turn your palm downward, you're engaging these muscles and potentially aggravating the condition.

Surprisingly, many common treatments like thick compression sleeves can actually make golfer's elbow worse by putting pressure on sensitive nerves and bony prominences. Instead, Petito reveals why simple approaches often work best: cold water therapy for just 10-20 seconds to reduce inflammation, proper stretching techniques to lengthen tight muscles, and a specialized counterforce strap that redirects pulling forces away from the tender area. You'll learn exactly how to modify your activities and grip positions to allow healing while maintaining functionality in your daily life.

If you're tired of that persistent elbow pain limiting your activities, this episode provides a clear roadmap to relief with practical, evidence-based recommendations from a specialist who treats these conditions daily. Most importantly, you'll know exactly when to try self-care and when it's time to seek professional help. The solution to your elbow pain might be simpler than you think—and it starts with understanding what's really happening beneath the surface.

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Hello and welcome to the new show, The Hand to Shoulder Solution, with me, Carl Petitto.

If you are experiencing pain in your arms and hands, this is your resource.

Subscribe, listen, and share to help us give pain the middle finger for good!

This is a resource to help you mitigate pain at home and become more educated on what to ask your doctors and therapists. No medical advice will be given, and you should always see your medical professional for any questions.

Thank you, and welcome to the show!