What happens if golfer's elbow is not treated?

Golfer's elbow involves the tendon attachment on the inner side of the elbow, where forearm muscles help bend the wrist and fingers. Repeated gripping, wrist movement, or forceful pulling can keep this area overloaded.

Ongoing symptoms may make you compensate by using the shoulder or other arm, while avoiding use can reduce conditioning. Pain can become noticeable during typing, carrying a bag, opening jars, or sports that involve a firm grip. See [Golfer's Elbow](/conditions/golfers-elbow/), [Elbow Pain](/symptoms/elbow-pain/), and [Forearm Pain](/symptoms/forearm-pain/) for related information.

Book an assessment when pain affects work, sleep, training, or your grip, or when it keeps returning. Examination can distinguish tendon pain from joint, nerve, or neck-related causes and identify the loads that need adjusting.

Care often includes temporary activity changes followed by progressive forearm and wrist strengthening. [Physiotherapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/physiotherapy/) can support this progression. Depending on the findings, a clinician may discuss [Shockwave Therapy](/treatments/physiotherapy-and-rehabilitation/shockwave-therapy/) or a [Cortisone Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/cortisone-injection/), including their possible drawbacks.

Seek urgent advice after a significant injury, if the elbow looks deformed, or if you develop sudden loss of strength, numbness, a cold hand, severe swelling, or fever. These signs need prompt assessment rather than waiting for routine tendon care.

Which movements are irritating the tendon, and what can I do instead? How much discomfort is acceptable during strengthening? Could my neck or a nerve be involved? When should I expect to review progress, and what alternatives are available if exercises are not enough?