What to Expect from Physiotherapy for Golfer's Elbow

Golfer's elbow, also called medial epicondylitis, affects the tendons attached to the inner side of the elbow. The physiotherapist may ask about gripping, keyboard work, racquet or golf activity, and when pain appears. They may examine elbow movement, wrist strength, grip tolerance and shoulder or neck movement that influences arm use. This helps separate tendon-related pain from joint, nerve or referred symptoms.

Your plan may begin with reducing the most provocative load without stopping all arm movement. Gentle wrist and forearm exercises can be followed by slow resistance work for bending the wrist and rotating the forearm. The therapist may practise lifting, carrying or sport technique with you, then increase resistance or repetition gradually. A brace or other support may be discussed when it helps a specific task. Follow the agreed dosage and report pain that remains noticeably worse after exercise or interferes with sleep.

Seek prompt medical assessment after a major injury, visible deformity, marked swelling, or inability to move the elbow. Get urgent help for sudden hand weakness, spreading numbness, a cold or pale hand, or severe pain with fever. Persistent symptoms despite a carefully adjusted programme warrant review, particularly if tingling suggests nerve involvement rather than an isolated tendon problem.

Ask which grips and lifts to modify, whether a support is appropriate for your work, and how to judge a tolerable exercise response. Ask when you can resume golf, racquet use or heavier training and what alternatives can maintain fitness meanwhile.