Golfer's Elbow

/ Embody Health Centre/
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Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) occurs due to inflammation of the wrist flexor tendons that attach onto the inside of the elbow. Inflammation of the tendons occurs due to repetitive overuse. Golfer’s elbow is similar to tennis elbow, but occurs on the opposite side of the elbow. Symptoms of golfer’s elbow can include:

  • Pain on the inside of the elbow

  • Stiffness in the elbow and forearm

  • Weakness in the hands

  • Possible numbness and/or tingling in the hand

Medial epicondylitis occurs due to repetitive overload of the tendons, causing inflammation. Repetitive overuse activities can include repetitive gripping, throwing sports, racket sports, golfing, lifting weights using improper techniques and/or occupations with repetitive movements such as construction, plumbing and carpentry.

Rehabilitation for golfer’s elbow includes stretching the wrist flexors and strengthening exercises to improve the strength and load tolerance of the muscles. To stretch the wrist flexors, keep your elbow straight with your palm up towards the ceiling, use your opposite hand to bring your hand down until you feel a stretch in the forearm. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, repeating 2x/day.

To begin light eccentric strengthening, support your arm on a table with your hand off the edge, palm up towards the ceiling, holding a light 2-3lbs weight. Slowly lower your hand down, eccentrically lengthening the wrist flexor muscles, then using your opposite hand to bring your hand back up. Repeat this exercise 2 sets of 10, daily.

If these stretches aren’t helping, contact us to schedule an appointment with one of our physiotherapists.