View Full Version : Elbow Injury Question
I am looking for advice from an orthopedist or physical therapist with long distance hiking experience. I had a lateral epicondyle release on 12/1/05. I have completed 1200 miles of the AT, but am a clutz, so I really need to use hiking poles. My surgeon doesn't know anything about hiking; he did release me to play golf as of 6/1/06. My question is-do you believe that my elbow will be able to handle the repetitive motion and impact of long distance hiking with poles? I plan to do a 500 mile section in May -June. Thanks for the help!
Jitterbug
Old Spice
03-12-2006, 01:51
Use one trekking pole.
Good reply! I would think that the repetitive motion would be bound to inflame the attachment at the lateral epicondyle, but what do I know.
What caused the problem in the first place if I may ask since golf usually affects the medial epicondyle whereas lateral epicondylitis is called "tennis elbow"?
Thanks for your response. The injury was caused by trauma last April (hit by a door knob, believe it or not!). I did PT, iontophoresis, had two cortizone injections before deciding on the surgery. You obviously are knowledgable on this topic-what do you think? I've considered the one pole option, or using no poles except on the roughest terrain. I also plan to use a kid's volleyball knee pad on the elbow when hiking to avoid further trauma in case of a fall. Thanks for any advice you may have.
Jitterbug
My question is-do you believe that my elbow will be able to handle the repetitive motion and impact of long distance hiking with poles?
Yes, but the only way you'll be able to tell is by trying.
C-Stepper
03-14-2006, 09:03
Not a medical professional, but...
I have had a nasty reconstructive surgery on my right elbow (out of work completely for 3 months, permanent partial disability remains) and suffer from nasty tendonitis, cubital tunnel (this is repaired now in my right arm), carpal tunnel, etc in BOTH arms.
I think we are all an experiment of one, and I'm still relatively young (i.e., not older age joint issues yet, just this nasty job that I use a computer alot) but I don't really have that much trouble using my poles except in cold weather. At that time I have to really be conscious to keep my elbows warm by keeping them covered up in chilly/cold conditions.
Maybe try the poles out on a short 2 day trip or something to see how it works out. Your arms will be really sore and weak at first, but they probably need the exercise/strengthening anyway...just be careful to not overdo and begin gradually.
Under doc's care, as you still appear to be, it would seem that you would be working thru some sort of strengthening regimen already.
orangebug
03-14-2006, 11:52
I think it will depend on how you use your poles. It they are used primarily for balance and an aid on rocky terrain, that won't be as much repetitive motion as some occasional weight bearing. If you are powering off your poles to increase your pace, then you will experience reptitive motion. I would expect that you will know within a day if this is a problem for you.
Have you tried using them at all on sidewalks around home?
Thanks for the input. I plan to try several day hikes using poles within the next few weeks, moving up to a long weekend backpacking trip. I've always used my poles to increase pace as well as for balance, but I can hike without them unless needed for PA type terrain or big downs. I appreciate the suggestions, I'll try them out and let you know what happens.
Jitterbug