What is Fisherman’s Elbow? And How to Treat It | Bass Angler Magazine
If you’ve been experiencing pain in your elbow & forearm whilst fishing lately, it’s likely that you have Fisherman’s Elbow. And though it may just feel like general soreness for now, it can worsen if left untreated. We’re going to explain the symptoms and causes of it, and most importantly, how to effectively treat and prevent it so you can get back out on the boat.
Fishing is a pastime to many, a hobby to some, and a career for a select few. But regardless of your fishing ability, it’s a sport that fills us with joy, excitement, and adventure, except when we’re injured. Though rare, avid bass anglers may experience a common condition known as Fisherman’s Elbow. This condition causes pain, discomfort, and hinders the ability to enjoy this beloved hobby.
What is Fisherman’s Elbow?
Fisherman’s Elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It’s similar to tennis elbow, but the pain and inflammation occur on the inner side of the joint rather than the outer side. This condition is commonly experienced by individuals who engage in repetitive motions or activities that involve gripping, lifting, or throwing, such as casting a fishing rod. In fact, it has several other common names – golfer’s elbow, baseball elbow, suitcase elbow, and forehand tennis elbow.
The affected tendons are responsible for flexing the wrist and fingers, and they attach to the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow. This bony area is the medial epicondyle. When these tendons become strained or overused, they develop micro-tears and become inflamed, causing pain and discomfort in the elbow area.
Fisherman’s Elbow can occur in anglers of all ages and fitness levels, but it’s more commonly seen in individuals who cast, reel, and grip fishing equipment every single day, especially for several hours on end.
If this sounds like the pain you’re experiencing, you’re in luck, we’re going to show you how you can treat it and get back to doing what you love.
How to Treat Fisherman’s Elbow
Fisherman’s Elbow can be frustrating, especially in the spring and summer when bass are running. The good news is that there are several treatment options available to alleviate your pain and promote healing. Depending on the severity of the condition, there are both non-surgical and surgical options. In most cases, you won’t need surgery, so let’s explore those options first.
Non-Surgical Options
- Rest – As with any injury, the first & most important step in treating Fisherman’s Elbow is rest. You need to give the affected tendons time to heal, meaning a few days of no angling.Ice & Heat Therapy – Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Heat therapy, such as warm compresses or heating pads, can also provide relief by increasing blood flow and promoting healing.
Pain Medication – Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and reduce inflammation. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Physical Therapy – A physical therapist can provide specific exercises and stretches to strengthen the muscles and tendons around the elbow, improving flexibility and promoting healing. You can also use an arm massager to treat the muscles above & below your elbow – this will stimulate blood flow and accelerate the recovery process.Brace or Splint – Wearing a brace or splint can provide support to the elbow and limit movement, allowing the tendons to rest and heal. These devices are typically worn during activities or at night to reduce strain on the affected area.
Surgical Options
Though most cases can be treated without surgery, there are options for those who prefer a surgical option or for severe cases.
- Corticosteroid Injections – In some cases, corticosteroid injections may be recommended to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief. These injections are administered directly into the affected area by a healthcare professional.Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – PRP therapy involves extracting a sample of the patient’s blood, processing it to concentrate the platelets, and then injecting the platelet-rich solution into the affected area. Platelets contain growth factors that can promote tissue healing and regeneration.
Surgery – If conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgery may be considered as a last resort. The surgical procedure for Fisherman’s Elbow typically involves removing damaged tissue or repairing the tendon. The specific surgical approach will depend on the individual case and the extent of the injury.
It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for Fisherman’s Elbow. They can provide a personalized treatment plan based on the severity of the condition, individual needs, and goals. Additionally, they can monitor progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
How to Prevent Elbow Pain While Fishing
Prevention is key when it comes to managing Fisherman’s Elbow and avoiding elbow pain while fishing. By implementing some simple strategies and making a few adjustments to your fishing routine, you can reduce the risk of developing this condition. Though a few of these may seem unnecessary, they can prolong your fishing career and ensure you can chase bass for years to come.
- Warm Up and Stretch – Before casting, make sure to warm up your upper body muscles, specifically your shoulders, biceps, triceps, and forearm muscles. This will improve blood circulation, flexibility, and joint mobility, reducing the risk of injury.Use Proper Technique and Form – Pay attention to your fishing technique and form to minimize strain on your elbow. Avoid excessive force when casting, reeling, or lifting heavy loads. Instead, focus on using smooth and controlled movements to reduce the stress on your tendons.
- Take Regular Breaks – Prolonged repetitive movements can strain your tendons and increase the risk of developing Fisherman’s Elbow. Take short breaks to rest your muscles and give your elbows a chance to recover.Use Ergonomic Fishing Equipment – Invest in fishing equipment that is designed to reduce strain on your elbows. Look for fishing rods with ergonomic grips that provide better support and reduce the strain on your wrists and forearms.
Strengthen Your Muscles – Focus on exercises that target the forearm muscles, such as wrist curls, forearm extensions, and grip strengthening exercises. These will reduce the strain on the tendons, and as a result, reduce the likelihood of Fisherman’s Elbow returning.
Maintain Good Posture – Proper posture plays a crucial role in preventing elbow pain while fishing. Maintain a neutral spine, avoid slouching, and keep your shoulders relaxed. This helps distribute the workload evenly throughout your upper body and reduces strain on your elbows.
Use Protective Gear – Consider using protective gear such as elbow sleeves or compression wraps during your fishing activities. These can provide additional support, stabilize the joint, and reduce the risk of injury, especially as you ease back into bass angling.
By following these preventive measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of experiencing elbow pain while fishing and minimize the chances of developing Fisherman’s Elbow. And in our opinion, prevention is always better than treatment.
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