Dr. Vaishali Suri (P.T.)
Golfer's Elbow: Not Just for Golfers
Medial epicondylalgia (golfer's elbow) is tendinopathy of the wrist flexor and forearm pronator tendons at their origin on the medial epicondyle (inner bony prominence of the elbow). Despite the name, it is seen in many people who don't play golf — including cricketers (bowling), badminton players, office workers, and anyone performing repetitive gripping or wrist flexion activities. It is less common than tennis elbow but can be equally disabling.
Symptoms
Pain and tenderness at the inner side of the elbow, aggravated by: gripping, wrist flexion, forearm pronation (turning the palm down), golf swing (particularly at impact), bowling, and racket sports. The inner elbow may be tender to touch. Unlike carpal tunnel, sensation in the hand is usually normal.
Physiotherapy Treatment
Progressive Tendon Loading
As with all tendinopathies, the cornerstone of treatment is progressive loading of the affected tendons. We start with isometric wrist flexion exercises (safe in acute phase), progress to isotonic exercises with light resistance, then to eccentric loading and heavy slow resistance training. Consistent loading over 12+ weeks is required for full tendon remodelling.
Manual Therapy
Elbow joint mobilisation and manipulation (Mills manipulation) provides short-term pain relief that enables more effective exercise participation.
Dry Needling
Trigger point needling of the wrist flexor muscle bellies reduces pain referral to the medial epicondyle and allows earlier loading.
Activity Modification
Identifying and modifying the specific activities causing overload — grip technique in golf or cricket, workstation adjustments — reduces ongoing tendon stress during rehabilitation.
Golfer's Elbow Treatment in Faridabad
At Realign Rehab Clinic, NIT-5, Faridabad, we provide evidence-based treatment for medial epicondylalgia. Book your elbow pain assessment today.