Elbow
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Elbow Tendinopathy)
Quick answer
Golfer's elbow is a load-related tendinopathy of the wrist flexor and pronator tendons at the inner elbow. It causes pain with gripping, lifting and rotation, and is managed with progressive forearm loading — with shockwave therapy considered as an adjunct in selected persistent cases.
Common symptoms
- Pain over the inner elbow
- Discomfort gripping or twisting
- Pain carrying bags or weights
- Soreness after golf or gym sessions
Potential causes and contributing factors
- Golf volume or technique change
- Increased gym pulling and carrying
- Repetitive occupational gripping
- Rapid return after a break
Who commonly experiences it
Golfers, gym-goers, cricketers and people in manual occupations.
How it is assessed at Back2Health
- Resisted wrist flexion and pronation
- Grip testing
- Ulnar nerve screening
- Sport and work load review
Where shockwave may fit
It may be considered when medial elbow tendon pain persists despite an appropriate loading programme and activity adjustment.
Where it may not fit
Ulnar nerve irritation and elbow joint or ligament problems present similarly and need to be identified before treatment is chosen.
Rehabilitation and alternative treatment
Whether or not shockwave is used, the rehabilitation plan does the long-term work. Alternatives and adjuncts may include physiotherapy alone, manual therapy where indicated, load management, footwear or equipment changes, and referral for imaging or a medical opinion.
- Isometric then progressive wrist flexor loading
- Forearm and grip endurance work
- Shoulder and trunk contribution to swing
- Graded return to golf or lifting
When medical referral may be needed
Numbness in the little and ring fingers suggests nerve involvement and needs assessment.
Seek urgent care for major trauma, sudden inability to bear weight, suspected fracture, severe swelling or redness, fever, unexplained weight loss, progressive weakness, or loss of bladder or bowel control.
Golfer's Elbow (Medial Elbow Tendinopathy) — questions patients ask
Often with reduced volume and adjusted practice, but this depends on symptom behaviour and is decided at assessment.
Medical disclaimer. Information on this website is provided for general education and does not replace an individual clinical diagnosis or medical advice. Shockwave therapy is not suitable for every person or every condition. A qualified clinician must assess suitability.
Written by the Back2Health physiotherapy and rehabilitation team · Clinically reviewed by the Back2Health clinical team · Last reviewed 3 August 2026
Find out whether shockwave is right for your condition
Start with a clinical assessment. The Back2Health team will evaluate the source of your symptoms, explain whether shockwave is appropriate and build a rehabilitation plan around your goals.