Golfer’s Elbow, Tennis Elbow, and How Physical Therapy Can Help with Elbow Pain
Elbow pain can disrupt your daily activities, hobbies, and work. Two common forms of elbow tendonitis—golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow—result from repetitive strain on the tendons connecting muscles to bones. While commonly seen in athletes, these conditions can affect anyone who performs repetitive hand and arm movements. Understanding their differences, causes, and how physical therapy (PT) can help is key to effective recovery.
Understanding Golfer’s and Tennis Elbow
Golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis) causes pain on the inner elbow from inflammation of the forearm flexor tendons, which help bend the wrist and fingers. Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) causes pain on the outer elbow from inflammation of the forearm extensor tendons, which help straighten the wrist and fingers.
Common Causes
- Repetitive Motions: Swinging in sports like golf or tennis, or tasks such as typing, painting, or using tools.
- Sudden Activity Increase: Overexertion without proper strength or conditioning.
- Postural Strain: Poor body mechanics, especially during repetitive tasks.
How Physical Therapy Helps
Physical therapy offers non-invasive treatments tailored to your condition. After a thorough evaluation, your therapist will create a personalized plan with techniques such as:
- Eccentric Strengthening: Exercises that improve tendon strength during the muscle’s lengthening phase, aiding recovery.
- Manual Therapy: Soft tissue massage and joint mobilization to reduce inflammation and relieve tight muscles.
- Nerve Gliding: Exercises to reduce nerve irritation that may cause tingling or numbness.
- Postural Training: Strengthening upper back and shoulder muscles to reduce strain on the elbows.
- Functional Training: Correcting movements such as your tennis stroke or golf swing to prevent future injury.
Long-Term Recovery and Prevention
Physical therapy not only reduces pain but also strengthens muscles and retrains proper form to prevent recurrence. Building endurance is crucial for athletes to maintain their technique throughout performance.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Early intervention helps prevent chronic pain and promotes faster recovery. A comprehensive PT program will:
- Reduce pain and inflammation
- Restore grip strength and flexibility
- Improve functional movement for daily tasks and sports
- Prevent future injury with proper form and strength training
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- Clermont: 236 Mohawk Road, Clermont, FL 34715
- Ocoee: 11095 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, FL 34761
- Apopka: 125 S. Park Ave., Apopka, FL 32703
Written By:
Dr. Katie Hohman
Physical Therapist, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, Founder
