Common Conditions

Golfer's Elbow

Types, Symptoms and Treatments

Understanding Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow, also known as medial epicondylitis, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the inner side of the elbow. It occurs due to overuse or repetitive stress on the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus. The condition is common among golfers, but it can also affect individuals who engage in activities requiring repetitive wrist flexion or gripping motions.

Golfer’s elbow can develop gradually, leading to discomfort, weakness, and reduced grip strength.

Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow symptoms typically develop over time and may include:

Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, which may radiate down to the forearm, hand and fingers.
Stiffness in the elbow, especially during wrist and finger movements.
Reduced grip strength.
Numbness or tingling sensations that may extend into the fingers, usually the ring and little fingers.
Symptoms worsen with repetitive or strenuous activities involving the wrist or forearm.

Causes and Risk Factors

Golfer's elbow is caused by repetitive stress on the tendons that attach to the inner elbow. Risk factors include:

Repetitive Activities: Sports or occupations that involve frequent wrist flexion, gripping, or lifting
Poor Technique: Incorrect form in sports like golf, tennis, or weightlifting can increase strain on the elbow tendons
Age & Overuse: More common in individuals over 40 or those with prolonged repetitive strain on the elbow
Weak Forearm Muscles: Insufficient strength in the forearm can lead to excessive stress on the tendons

Differential Diagnoses

Several conditions can mimic the symptoms of golfer's elbow, so it is crucial for professionals to accurately diagnose the problem:

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis): Pain occurs on the outer side of the elbow rather than the inner side.
Cubital tunnel syndrome: Compression of the ulnar nerve causing similar tingling or numbness in the ring and little fingers.
Ulnar collateral ligament injury: Often seen in throwing athletes, leading to instability and pain in the inner side of elbow.
Elbow arthritis: Generalized joint pain, stiffness, and swelling from degeneration.
Referred pain from cervical spine: Irritated or compressed nerve roots in the neck can cause symptoms radiating down to the arm and elbow.

Physiotherapy Treatment

Our physiotherapy approach is tailored to relieve pain, promote healing, and restore function. Our evidence-based treatment for golfer's elbow includes:

Manual Therapy

Physiotherapists typically relax the affected muscles to relieve muscle tightness, while also performing joint mobilization on the elbow area to reduce stiffness and promote range of motion.

Trigger Point Acupuncture

Dry needling techniques are applied to the affected muscles and tendons to alleviate pain and further enhance the treatment effect.

Advanced Modalities

For golfers' elbow patients, we use various advanced modalities, including shockwave therapy, ultrasound therapy, and high-energy laser therapy. These methods assist the main treatments (such as manual therapy and exercise therapy), primarily aimed at relieving pain and promoting movement.

Exercise Therapy

Isometric exercises (static strengthening exercises) are effective for pain relief during the early stages of the condition, while eccentric exercises in the later stages of rehabilitation strengthen the affected tendon and are widely supported by literature. In addition, our physiotherapist will assess the kinetic chain, such as the shoulder joint and scapula, and if any weaknesses are found, evaluation and strengthening will be performed.

Bracing or Taping

Using elbow braces or kinesiology tape can help reduce pressure on the tendon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can golfer's elbow heal on its own?

Mild cases of golfer’s elbow can resolve with rest, ice application, and activity modification. However, persistent or severe symptoms require professional evaluation and treatment.

How long does it take to recover from golfer's elbow?

Recovery time varies depending on the severity of the condition and adherence to treatment. Most people recover within 6-12 weeks, but chronic cases may take several months.

Can I continue playing sports with golfer's elbow?

It is advisable to rest and avoid aggravating activities until symptoms subside. Gradual return to sports with proper technique, equipment and rehabilitation is essential to prevent recurrence.

How can I prevent golfer's elbow?

Preventive measures include proper warm-up, using ergonomic equipment, maintaining good posture, and strengthening forearm muscles to reduce tendon strain.

Testimonials & Reviews

I came to them with chronic neck and knee issues, and they didn't just provide massage therapy. They took the time to thoroughly evaluate the source of my problems and develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
Through a combination of targeted hands-on therapy, customized strengthening exercises, and patient education, they helped me regain mobility and address the root causes of my pain. I learned the correct ways to strengthen the muscles and improve my posture to prevent future issues.
The staff is incredibly knowledgeable, taking the time to explain everything and ensure I understood how to continue my progress at home. Thanks to their expertise and dedication, I'm now pain-free and able to return to my regular activities without any limitations.

Arthur Liu

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I had never been a believer in physio therapy in the past or that my experience with multiple chain medical physiotherapy center had brought me nothing but temporary improvements. Until I had came across mobilize physiotherapy where they take the extra mile to examine your situation and tailor a physiotherapy session. The physiotherapists at Mobilize not only identifies the root cause and provide massages for pain relievers but also to provide take home exercises for improvements. I was never rush out the door for the next session and they ensure that I had receive the right treatment before the session ends.
I would highly recommend this physiotherapy center.

Edmond Chan

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As someone who regularly goes through the torment of backpain and neck pain, I was recommended by my friend to visit Mobilize Physiotherapy.
Everything - from appointment booking to the physiotherapy session itself - was very professional. Not only did Avery, my physiotherapist. give detailed explanations as he worked through my areas of pain, he taught me a few exercises that improve my core strength, which in turn could reduce my back and neck pain. Now, whenever I experience acute pain, I do these exercises and the pain eases away!
I highly recommend Mobilize Physiotherapy.

William Luk

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Excellent service. The physiotherapists are very professional, easy to communicate with and also give clear instructions on some home exercises that can help ease my pain. As a stay at home mom, I need a lot of strength on my daily routine and whenever I have any pain and problems I go to Avery for therapies and he is always helpful and caring
Highly recommended!

Samantha Lee

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I can't recommend my physio partner enough! They are always patient and provide valuable guidance to help me relieve chronic pain and improve my performance in jiu-jitsu. Their expertise has been invaluable to me. Highly recommended!

Felix Kung

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passionate, precise and comprehensive physiotherapy service, highly recommended for sudden onset or prolonged pain with unknown reason.

Sam Sam

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