Golfer’s elbow is a condition where the tendons on the inside of the elbow become inflamed or irritated, typically due to overuse or repetitive strain. It affects the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle, the bony bump on the inner side of your elbow. These tendons help control wrist and finger flexion (bending), and when overworked, they can become painful and weakened.

An analogy…

Think of the tendon like a rope connecting your muscle to the bone. If the rope is constantly pulled on without enough rest or support, it starts to fray, swell, and weaken, and that’s exactly what happens in golfer’s elbow.

What are other names that golfers elbow can be referred to?

Posterior Impingement Syndrome, Posterior Impingement of the Elbow

What causes elbow impingement?

The condition involves inflammation or degeneration of the common flexor tendon, which attaches wrist and finger flexor muscles to the medial epicondyle. Repeated bending of the wrist, gripping, or twisting causes tiny tears in the tendon, leading to pain and dysfunction. It’s not limited to golfers, it can affect anyone who performs repetitive hand, wrist, or forearm activity.

What are the signs and symptoms of golfers elbow?

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
• Discomfort that may radiate into the forearm or wrist
• Pain when gripping, lifting, or twisting
• Weakness in the hand or wrist
• Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning or after activity
• Pain worsens with repetitive use of the wrist or fingers

What tests are used to diagnose golfers elbow?

Physical examination: checking for tenderness at the medial epicondyle

Golfer’s elbow test: pain when resisting wrist flexion or pronation

How long does golfers elbow take to heal?

Recovery depends on the severity and how early it’s treated. Mild cases can settle in 2–6 weeks with proper rest and rehab. Moderate to chronic cases may take 2–3 months or longer to fully heal. If the tendon has degeneration or persistent pain, recovery may be slower, especially without modifying aggravating activities.

How does golfers elbow happen?

• Repetitive activities involving gripping, lifting, or wrist flexion
• Poor lifting technique
• Occupations that require manual labour or computer work
• Sports like golf, tennis, climbing, or weightlifting
• Muscle imbalances or lack of forearm strength or flexibility
• Previous elbow or wrist injury

What treatment can help golfers elbow?

• Manual therapy such as massage, dry needling, and joint mobilisation
• A rehab program focused on forearm stretching and strengthening
• Bracing or taping to reduce strain on the tendon
• Ergonomic adjustments for work or sport

What exercises or stretches can I do for golfers elbow?

• Wrist flexor and extensor stretches
• Isometric wrist holds
• Eccentric wrist flexion exercises using light weights
• Grip strength training
• Shoulder and postural exercises to reduce overload on the elbow

What products can help with golfers elbow?

• Trigger Ball
• KT Pilates Band Pack