While tennis elbow gets most of the attention, its counterpart—golfer’s elbow—is just as common and often more confusing.
Known clinically as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. And like tennis elbow, it rarely has anything to do with actually playing golf.
Golfer’s elbow involves irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial (inner) side of the elbow. These tendons control the wrist flexor muscles, which are responsible for bending your wrist forward, gripping objects, and stabilizing the forearm during lifting and pulling.
Like tennis elbow, this is often not just inflammation. Instead, it’s micro-tearing of tendon fibers, collagen breakdown, and reduced load tolerance. This means effective treatment must go beyond rest and address tissue strength and resilience.
Golfer’s elbow tends to affect people who:
- Perform repetitive gripping or wrist flexion
- Lift weights frequently
- Work manual labor jobs
- Spend long hours typing or using tools
One of the biggest challenges?
It’s often mistaken for other conditions, including nerve issues.
That’s why understanding the differences—and how physical therapy treats it—is critical for proper recovery.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from repetitive stress combined with poor mechanics or overload.
1. Repetitive Wrist Flexion
- Typing or keyboard use
- Using hand tools
- Pulling or lifting motions
2. Overgripping
- Holding weights too tightly
- Carrying heavy objects frequently
3. Improper Lifting Technique
- Curling weights incorrectly
- Overusing forearms instead of larger muscle groups
4. Sudden Increase in Activity
- New workout programs
- Increased workload
5. Weakness Elsewhere
- Shoulder instability
- Poor core engagement
- Lack of upper-body coordination
Again, the elbow is often compensating for dysfunction elsewhere.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow presents differently from tennis elbow—and those differences matter for treatment.
Primary Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness at the medial epicondyle
- Pain with wrist flexion or gripping
Functional Limitations
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or carrying
- Discomfort during pulling movements
Possible Nerve Involvement
Because the ulnar nerve runs close to this area, some people experience:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Numbness in the hand
- Weak grip strength
This overlap can make diagnosis tricky—and highlights the importance of a proper physical therapy evaluation.
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference is key to effective treatment.
While they are similar conditions, the exercise strategies differ, especially in early rehab.
Why Golfer’s Elbow Can Be More Persistent
In some cases, golfer’s elbow is harder to resolve than tennis elbow. Why?
Constant Use of Flexor Muscles - We use gripping motions constantly throughout the day
Nerve Sensitivity - The nearby ulnar nerve can become irritated
Poor Load Management - People often continue aggravating activities without realizing it
Delayed Treatment - Symptoms are sometimes dismissed early on
How Physical Therapy Treats Golfer’s Elbow
Physical therapy takes a multi-layered approach to recovery.
1. Pain Reduction and Load Management
Early treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon, such as activity modification (not complete rest), avoiding painful gripping patterns, and manual therapy to reduce tension.
Patients are taught how to stay active without worsening symptoms.
2. Isometric Exercises (Early Phase)
Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without movement. For example, holding a light grip without moving the wrist. This can reduce pain, help maintain muscle activation, and prepare tendon for loading.
3. Eccentric and Concentric Strengthening
As symptoms improve, therapy progresses to eccentric wrist flexion (slow lowering), controlled strengthening exercises, and gradual resistance increases.
This helps restore tendon integrity, improve durability, and prevent reinjury.
4. Nerve Mobilization (If Needed)
If the ulnar nerve is involved, physical therapy may include nerve gliding exercises, gentle mobility techniques, and postural correction.
This reduces tingling, numbness and neural tension.
5. Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation
The elbow doesn’t function in isolation. Physical therapists often incorporate shoulder stability exercises, scapular strengthening, and core engagement training.
This reduces the load placed on the elbow during movement.
6. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching of flexor muscles, and joint mobilizations.
These improve blood flow, tissue mobility and pain levels.
At-Home Exercise
Consistency at home is crucial for recovery. Here are some at-home exercises that may be recommended:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
- Arm straight, palm up
- Gently pull fingers downward
2. Isometric Grip Hold
- Hold a soft ball or towel
- Maintain a steady contraction
3. Eccentric Wrist Flexion
- Use light weight
- Assist up, slowly lower down
4. Ulnar Nerve Glide (If Prescribed)
- Specific arm positioning and movement
- Must be done carefully to avoid irritation
Recovery
Golfer’s elbow recovery varies. For mild cases, this can take 4–8 weeks. For moderate cases, it may be around 8–12 weeks. In chronic cases, you may be looking at 3–6+ months.
Recovery tends to be slower if nerve involvement is present or activity modification is inconsistent.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention strategies focus on reducing strain and improving resilience.
Key Tips:
- Avoid excessive gripping
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Strengthen forearms regularly
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
When To Seek Help
You should consider physical therapy if:
- Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms interfere with daily tasks
- You experience tingling or numbness
- Grip strength is declining
Golfer’s elbow can be subtle at first—but if ignored, it can become a long-term issue. Early treatment with physical therapy leads to faster and more complete recovery. It’s not just about getting rid of pain—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient system.
Contact us at Lifestyle Physical Therapy today to get started!
While tennis elbow gets most of the attention, its counterpart—golfer’s elbow—is just as common and often more confusing.
Known clinically as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. And like tennis elbow, it rarely has anything to do with actually playing golf.
Golfer’s elbow involves irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial (inner) side of the elbow. These tendons control the wrist flexor muscles, which are responsible for bending your wrist forward, gripping objects, and stabilizing the forearm during lifting and pulling.
Like tennis elbow, this is often not just inflammation. Instead, it’s micro-tearing of tendon fibers, collagen breakdown, and reduced load tolerance. This means effective treatment must go beyond rest and address tissue strength and resilience.
Golfer’s elbow tends to affect people who:
- Perform repetitive gripping or wrist flexion
- Lift weights frequently
- Work manual labor jobs
- Spend long hours typing or using tools
One of the biggest challenges?
It’s often mistaken for other conditions, including nerve issues.
That’s why understanding the differences—and how physical therapy treats it—is critical for proper recovery.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from repetitive stress combined with poor mechanics or overload.
1. Repetitive Wrist Flexion
- Typing or keyboard use
- Using hand tools
- Pulling or lifting motions
2. Overgripping
- Holding weights too tightly
- Carrying heavy objects frequently
3. Improper Lifting Technique
- Curling weights incorrectly
- Overusing forearms instead of larger muscle groups
4. Sudden Increase in Activity
- New workout programs
- Increased workload
5. Weakness Elsewhere
- Shoulder instability
- Poor core engagement
- Lack of upper-body coordination
Again, the elbow is often compensating for dysfunction elsewhere.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow presents differently from tennis elbow—and those differences matter for treatment.
Primary Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness at the medial epicondyle
- Pain with wrist flexion or gripping
Functional Limitations
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or carrying
- Discomfort during pulling movements
Possible Nerve Involvement
Because the ulnar nerve runs close to this area, some people experience:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Numbness in the hand
- Weak grip strength
This overlap can make diagnosis tricky—and highlights the importance of a proper physical therapy evaluation.
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference is key to effective treatment.
While they are similar conditions, the exercise strategies differ, especially in early rehab.
Why Golfer’s Elbow Can Be More Persistent
In some cases, golfer’s elbow is harder to resolve than tennis elbow. Why?
Constant Use of Flexor Muscles - We use gripping motions constantly throughout the day
Nerve Sensitivity - The nearby ulnar nerve can become irritated
Poor Load Management - People often continue aggravating activities without realizing it
Delayed Treatment - Symptoms are sometimes dismissed early on
How Physical Therapy Treats Golfer’s Elbow
Physical therapy takes a multi-layered approach to recovery.
1. Pain Reduction and Load Management
Early treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon, such as activity modification (not complete rest), avoiding painful gripping patterns, and manual therapy to reduce tension.
Patients are taught how to stay active without worsening symptoms.
2. Isometric Exercises (Early Phase)
Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without movement. For example, holding a light grip without moving the wrist. This can reduce pain, help maintain muscle activation, and prepare tendon for loading.
3. Eccentric and Concentric Strengthening
As symptoms improve, therapy progresses to eccentric wrist flexion (slow lowering), controlled strengthening exercises, and gradual resistance increases.
This helps restore tendon integrity, improve durability, and prevent reinjury.
4. Nerve Mobilization (If Needed)
If the ulnar nerve is involved, physical therapy may include nerve gliding exercises, gentle mobility techniques, and postural correction.
This reduces tingling, numbness and neural tension.
5. Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation
The elbow doesn’t function in isolation. Physical therapists often incorporate shoulder stability exercises, scapular strengthening, and core engagement training.
This reduces the load placed on the elbow during movement.
6. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching of flexor muscles, and joint mobilizations.
These improve blood flow, tissue mobility and pain levels.
At-Home Exercise
Consistency at home is crucial for recovery. Here are some at-home exercises that may be recommended:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
- Arm straight, palm up
- Gently pull fingers downward
2. Isometric Grip Hold
- Hold a soft ball or towel
- Maintain a steady contraction
3. Eccentric Wrist Flexion
- Use light weight
- Assist up, slowly lower down
4. Ulnar Nerve Glide (If Prescribed)
- Specific arm positioning and movement
- Must be done carefully to avoid irritation
Recovery
Golfer’s elbow recovery varies. For mild cases, this can take 4–8 weeks. For moderate cases, it may be around 8–12 weeks. In chronic cases, you may be looking at 3–6+ months.
Recovery tends to be slower if nerve involvement is present or activity modification is inconsistent.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention strategies focus on reducing strain and improving resilience.
Key Tips:
- Avoid excessive gripping
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Strengthen forearms regularly
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
When To Seek Help
You should consider physical therapy if:
- Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms interfere with daily tasks
- You experience tingling or numbness
- Grip strength is declining
Golfer’s elbow can be subtle at first—but if ignored, it can become a long-term issue. Early treatment with physical therapy leads to faster and more complete recovery. It’s not just about getting rid of pain—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient system.
Contact us at Lifestyle Physical Therapy today to get started!
While tennis elbow gets most of the attention, its counterpart—golfer’s elbow—is just as common and often more confusing.
Known clinically as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. And like tennis elbow, it rarely has anything to do with actually playing golf.
Golfer’s elbow involves irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial (inner) side of the elbow. These tendons control the wrist flexor muscles, which are responsible for bending your wrist forward, gripping objects, and stabilizing the forearm during lifting and pulling.
Like tennis elbow, this is often not just inflammation. Instead, it’s micro-tearing of tendon fibers, collagen breakdown, and reduced load tolerance. This means effective treatment must go beyond rest and address tissue strength and resilience.
Golfer’s elbow tends to affect people who:
- Perform repetitive gripping or wrist flexion
- Lift weights frequently
- Work manual labor jobs
- Spend long hours typing or using tools
One of the biggest challenges?
It’s often mistaken for other conditions, including nerve issues.
That’s why understanding the differences—and how physical therapy treats it—is critical for proper recovery.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from repetitive stress combined with poor mechanics or overload.
1. Repetitive Wrist Flexion
- Typing or keyboard use
- Using hand tools
- Pulling or lifting motions
2. Overgripping
- Holding weights too tightly
- Carrying heavy objects frequently
3. Improper Lifting Technique
- Curling weights incorrectly
- Overusing forearms instead of larger muscle groups
4. Sudden Increase in Activity
- New workout programs
- Increased workload
5. Weakness Elsewhere
- Shoulder instability
- Poor core engagement
- Lack of upper-body coordination
Again, the elbow is often compensating for dysfunction elsewhere.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow presents differently from tennis elbow—and those differences matter for treatment.
Primary Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness at the medial epicondyle
- Pain with wrist flexion or gripping
Functional Limitations
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or carrying
- Discomfort during pulling movements
Possible Nerve Involvement
Because the ulnar nerve runs close to this area, some people experience:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Numbness in the hand
- Weak grip strength
This overlap can make diagnosis tricky—and highlights the importance of a proper physical therapy evaluation.
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference is key to effective treatment.
While they are similar conditions, the exercise strategies differ, especially in early rehab.
Why Golfer’s Elbow Can Be More Persistent
In some cases, golfer’s elbow is harder to resolve than tennis elbow. Why?
Constant Use of Flexor Muscles - We use gripping motions constantly throughout the day
Nerve Sensitivity - The nearby ulnar nerve can become irritated
Poor Load Management - People often continue aggravating activities without realizing it
Delayed Treatment - Symptoms are sometimes dismissed early on
How Physical Therapy Treats Golfer’s Elbow
Physical therapy takes a multi-layered approach to recovery.
1. Pain Reduction and Load Management
Early treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon, such as activity modification (not complete rest), avoiding painful gripping patterns, and manual therapy to reduce tension.
Patients are taught how to stay active without worsening symptoms.
2. Isometric Exercises (Early Phase)
Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without movement. For example, holding a light grip without moving the wrist. This can reduce pain, help maintain muscle activation, and prepare tendon for loading.
3. Eccentric and Concentric Strengthening
As symptoms improve, therapy progresses to eccentric wrist flexion (slow lowering), controlled strengthening exercises, and gradual resistance increases.
This helps restore tendon integrity, improve durability, and prevent reinjury.
4. Nerve Mobilization (If Needed)
If the ulnar nerve is involved, physical therapy may include nerve gliding exercises, gentle mobility techniques, and postural correction.
This reduces tingling, numbness and neural tension.
5. Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation
The elbow doesn’t function in isolation. Physical therapists often incorporate shoulder stability exercises, scapular strengthening, and core engagement training.
This reduces the load placed on the elbow during movement.
6. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching of flexor muscles, and joint mobilizations.
These improve blood flow, tissue mobility and pain levels.
At-Home Exercise
Consistency at home is crucial for recovery. Here are some at-home exercises that may be recommended:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
- Arm straight, palm up
- Gently pull fingers downward
2. Isometric Grip Hold
- Hold a soft ball or towel
- Maintain a steady contraction
3. Eccentric Wrist Flexion
- Use light weight
- Assist up, slowly lower down
4. Ulnar Nerve Glide (If Prescribed)
- Specific arm positioning and movement
- Must be done carefully to avoid irritation
Recovery
Golfer’s elbow recovery varies. For mild cases, this can take 4–8 weeks. For moderate cases, it may be around 8–12 weeks. In chronic cases, you may be looking at 3–6+ months.
Recovery tends to be slower if nerve involvement is present or activity modification is inconsistent.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention strategies focus on reducing strain and improving resilience.
Key Tips:
- Avoid excessive gripping
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Strengthen forearms regularly
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
When To Seek Help
You should consider physical therapy if:
- Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms interfere with daily tasks
- You experience tingling or numbness
- Grip strength is declining
Golfer’s elbow can be subtle at first—but if ignored, it can become a long-term issue. Early treatment with physical therapy leads to faster and more complete recovery. It’s not just about getting rid of pain—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient system.
Contact us at Lifestyle Physical Therapy today to get started!
While tennis elbow gets most of the attention, its counterpart—golfer’s elbow—is just as common and often more confusing.
Known clinically as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. And like tennis elbow, it rarely has anything to do with actually playing golf.
Golfer’s elbow involves irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial (inner) side of the elbow. These tendons control the wrist flexor muscles, which are responsible for bending your wrist forward, gripping objects, and stabilizing the forearm during lifting and pulling.
Like tennis elbow, this is often not just inflammation. Instead, it’s micro-tearing of tendon fibers, collagen breakdown, and reduced load tolerance. This means effective treatment must go beyond rest and address tissue strength and resilience.
Golfer’s elbow tends to affect people who:
- Perform repetitive gripping or wrist flexion
- Lift weights frequently
- Work manual labor jobs
- Spend long hours typing or using tools
One of the biggest challenges?
It’s often mistaken for other conditions, including nerve issues.
That’s why understanding the differences—and how physical therapy treats it—is critical for proper recovery.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from repetitive stress combined with poor mechanics or overload.
1. Repetitive Wrist Flexion
- Typing or keyboard use
- Using hand tools
- Pulling or lifting motions
2. Overgripping
- Holding weights too tightly
- Carrying heavy objects frequently
3. Improper Lifting Technique
- Curling weights incorrectly
- Overusing forearms instead of larger muscle groups
4. Sudden Increase in Activity
- New workout programs
- Increased workload
5. Weakness Elsewhere
- Shoulder instability
- Poor core engagement
- Lack of upper-body coordination
Again, the elbow is often compensating for dysfunction elsewhere.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow presents differently from tennis elbow—and those differences matter for treatment.
Primary Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness at the medial epicondyle
- Pain with wrist flexion or gripping
Functional Limitations
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or carrying
- Discomfort during pulling movements
Possible Nerve Involvement
Because the ulnar nerve runs close to this area, some people experience:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Numbness in the hand
- Weak grip strength
This overlap can make diagnosis tricky—and highlights the importance of a proper physical therapy evaluation.
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference is key to effective treatment.
While they are similar conditions, the exercise strategies differ, especially in early rehab.
Why Golfer’s Elbow Can Be More Persistent
In some cases, golfer’s elbow is harder to resolve than tennis elbow. Why?
Constant Use of Flexor Muscles - We use gripping motions constantly throughout the day
Nerve Sensitivity - The nearby ulnar nerve can become irritated
Poor Load Management - People often continue aggravating activities without realizing it
Delayed Treatment - Symptoms are sometimes dismissed early on
How Physical Therapy Treats Golfer’s Elbow
Physical therapy takes a multi-layered approach to recovery.
1. Pain Reduction and Load Management
Early treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon, such as activity modification (not complete rest), avoiding painful gripping patterns, and manual therapy to reduce tension.
Patients are taught how to stay active without worsening symptoms.
2. Isometric Exercises (Early Phase)
Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without movement. For example, holding a light grip without moving the wrist. This can reduce pain, help maintain muscle activation, and prepare tendon for loading.
3. Eccentric and Concentric Strengthening
As symptoms improve, therapy progresses to eccentric wrist flexion (slow lowering), controlled strengthening exercises, and gradual resistance increases.
This helps restore tendon integrity, improve durability, and prevent reinjury.
4. Nerve Mobilization (If Needed)
If the ulnar nerve is involved, physical therapy may include nerve gliding exercises, gentle mobility techniques, and postural correction.
This reduces tingling, numbness and neural tension.
5. Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation
The elbow doesn’t function in isolation. Physical therapists often incorporate shoulder stability exercises, scapular strengthening, and core engagement training.
This reduces the load placed on the elbow during movement.
6. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching of flexor muscles, and joint mobilizations.
These improve blood flow, tissue mobility and pain levels.
At-Home Exercise
Consistency at home is crucial for recovery. Here are some at-home exercises that may be recommended:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
- Arm straight, palm up
- Gently pull fingers downward
2. Isometric Grip Hold
- Hold a soft ball or towel
- Maintain a steady contraction
3. Eccentric Wrist Flexion
- Use light weight
- Assist up, slowly lower down
4. Ulnar Nerve Glide (If Prescribed)
- Specific arm positioning and movement
- Must be done carefully to avoid irritation
Recovery
Golfer’s elbow recovery varies. For mild cases, this can take 4–8 weeks. For moderate cases, it may be around 8–12 weeks. In chronic cases, you may be looking at 3–6+ months.
Recovery tends to be slower if nerve involvement is present or activity modification is inconsistent.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention strategies focus on reducing strain and improving resilience.
Key Tips:
- Avoid excessive gripping
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Strengthen forearms regularly
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
When To Seek Help
You should consider physical therapy if:
- Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms interfere with daily tasks
- You experience tingling or numbness
- Grip strength is declining
Golfer’s elbow can be subtle at first—but if ignored, it can become a long-term issue. Early treatment with physical therapy leads to faster and more complete recovery. It’s not just about getting rid of pain—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient system.
Contact us at Lifestyle Physical Therapy today to get started!
Known clinically as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain on the inside of the elbow. And like tennis elbow, it rarely has anything to do with actually playing golf.
Golfer’s elbow involves irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach to the medial (inner) side of the elbow. These tendons control the wrist flexor muscles, which are responsible for bending your wrist forward, gripping objects, and stabilizing the forearm during lifting and pulling.
Like tennis elbow, this is often not just inflammation. Instead, it’s micro-tearing of tendon fibers, collagen breakdown, and reduced load tolerance. This means effective treatment must go beyond rest and address tissue strength and resilience.
Golfer’s elbow tends to affect people who:
- Perform repetitive gripping or wrist flexion
- Lift weights frequently
- Work manual labor jobs
- Spend long hours typing or using tools
One of the biggest challenges?
It’s often mistaken for other conditions, including nerve issues.
That’s why understanding the differences—and how physical therapy treats it—is critical for proper recovery.
Common Causes of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow typically develops from repetitive stress combined with poor mechanics or overload.
1. Repetitive Wrist Flexion
- Typing or keyboard use
- Using hand tools
- Pulling or lifting motions
2. Overgripping
- Holding weights too tightly
- Carrying heavy objects frequently
3. Improper Lifting Technique
- Curling weights incorrectly
- Overusing forearms instead of larger muscle groups
4. Sudden Increase in Activity
- New workout programs
- Increased workload
5. Weakness Elsewhere
- Shoulder instability
- Poor core engagement
- Lack of upper-body coordination
Again, the elbow is often compensating for dysfunction elsewhere.
Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow presents differently from tennis elbow—and those differences matter for treatment.
Primary Symptoms
- Pain on the inside of the elbow
- Tenderness at the medial epicondyle
- Pain with wrist flexion or gripping
Functional Limitations
- Difficulty gripping objects
- Pain when lifting or carrying
- Discomfort during pulling movements
Possible Nerve Involvement
Because the ulnar nerve runs close to this area, some people experience:
- Tingling in the ring and pinky fingers
- Numbness in the hand
- Weak grip strength
This overlap can make diagnosis tricky—and highlights the importance of a proper physical therapy evaluation.
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference is key to effective treatment.
While they are similar conditions, the exercise strategies differ, especially in early rehab.
Why Golfer’s Elbow Can Be More Persistent
In some cases, golfer’s elbow is harder to resolve than tennis elbow. Why?
Constant Use of Flexor Muscles - We use gripping motions constantly throughout the day
Nerve Sensitivity - The nearby ulnar nerve can become irritated
Poor Load Management - People often continue aggravating activities without realizing it
Delayed Treatment - Symptoms are sometimes dismissed early on
How Physical Therapy Treats Golfer’s Elbow
Physical therapy takes a multi-layered approach to recovery.
1. Pain Reduction and Load Management
Early treatment focuses on reducing stress on the tendon, such as activity modification (not complete rest), avoiding painful gripping patterns, and manual therapy to reduce tension.
Patients are taught how to stay active without worsening symptoms.
2. Isometric Exercises (Early Phase)
Isometric exercises involve contracting the muscle without movement. For example, holding a light grip without moving the wrist. This can reduce pain, help maintain muscle activation, and prepare tendon for loading.
3. Eccentric and Concentric Strengthening
As symptoms improve, therapy progresses to eccentric wrist flexion (slow lowering), controlled strengthening exercises, and gradual resistance increases.
This helps restore tendon integrity, improve durability, and prevent reinjury.
4. Nerve Mobilization (If Needed)
If the ulnar nerve is involved, physical therapy may include nerve gliding exercises, gentle mobility techniques, and postural correction.
This reduces tingling, numbness and neural tension.
5. Kinetic Chain Rehabilitation
The elbow doesn’t function in isolation. Physical therapists often incorporate shoulder stability exercises, scapular strengthening, and core engagement training.
This reduces the load placed on the elbow during movement.
6. Manual Therapy
Hands-on techniques may include soft tissue mobilization, stretching of flexor muscles, and joint mobilizations.
These improve blood flow, tissue mobility and pain levels.
At-Home Exercise
Consistency at home is crucial for recovery. Here are some at-home exercises that may be recommended:
1. Wrist Flexor Stretch
- Arm straight, palm up
- Gently pull fingers downward
2. Isometric Grip Hold
- Hold a soft ball or towel
- Maintain a steady contraction
3. Eccentric Wrist Flexion
- Use light weight
- Assist up, slowly lower down
4. Ulnar Nerve Glide (If Prescribed)
- Specific arm positioning and movement
- Must be done carefully to avoid irritation
Recovery
Golfer’s elbow recovery varies. For mild cases, this can take 4–8 weeks. For moderate cases, it may be around 8–12 weeks. In chronic cases, you may be looking at 3–6+ months.
Recovery tends to be slower if nerve involvement is present or activity modification is inconsistent.
Preventing Golfer’s Elbow
Prevention strategies focus on reducing strain and improving resilience.
Key Tips:
- Avoid excessive gripping
- Use proper lifting techniques
- Strengthen forearms regularly
- Maintain good posture
- Take breaks during repetitive tasks
When To Seek Help
You should consider physical therapy if:
- Pain persists for more than 2–3 weeks
- Symptoms interfere with daily tasks
- You experience tingling or numbness
- Grip strength is declining
Golfer’s elbow can be subtle at first—but if ignored, it can become a long-term issue. Early treatment with physical therapy leads to faster and more complete recovery. It’s not just about getting rid of pain—it’s about building a stronger, more resilient system.
Contact us at Lifestyle Physical Therapy today to get started!