Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a painful condition that affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It’s commonly caused by repetitive wrist and forearm motions, such as swinging a golf club, lifting weights, or typing for long hours. While the discomfort can start as mild soreness, untreated golfer’s elbow can progress to chronic pain and limited mobility. Fortunately, most cases can be successfully managed with physical therapy, helping you recover naturally without the need for surgery.
Understanding Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow develops when the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to your inner elbow become irritated or inflamed. Overuse or improper technique during physical activity puts extra stress on these tendons, leading to pain, stiffness, and weakness. Early treatment is key to preventing long-term damage, and that’s where Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy can help.
The Role of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is one of the most effective, non-surgical treatments for golfer’s elbow. At Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy, our licensed physical therapist in St. James will identify the underlying cause of your pain —whether it’s poor biomechanics, muscle imbalance, or overuse —and create a customized treatment plan to promote healing and restore strength.
Your program may include:
- Manual therapy: Hands-on techniques that reduce tension, improve blood flow, and promote tendon healing.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises: Focused movements to restore flexibility and build the muscles that support your elbow and forearm.
- Ergonomic and technique training: Guidance on improving your posture, grip, and motion patterns to prevent re-injury.
- Modalities for pain relief: Treatments such as ultrasound, soft-tissue mobilization, or ice/heat therapy to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
Preventing the Need for Surgery
Surgery is typically only necessary when tendon damage becomes severe or chronic. However, with early and consistent physical therapy, most patients experience significant improvement within weeks or months, often avoiding invasive procedures altogether. The goal is to treat the root cause, not just the symptoms, so you can return to your normal activities pain-free and with greater resilience.
Begin Your Recovery With a Physical Therapist in St. James
If golfer’s elbow is affecting your daily life, don’t wait for the pain to worsen. Visit Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy in St. James, NY, for expert evaluation and personalized care. Our team will help you strengthen your elbow, restore mobility, and get back to doing what you love, no surgery required.
Start your recovery today with Within Normal Limits Physical Therapy!