How to Treat and Prevent Tennis Elbow for Golfers: Expert Tips
If you’re a golfer experiencing pain on the outside of your elbow, you might be dealing with tennis elbow—also known as lateral epicondylitis. Despite the name, this condition isn’t just for tennis players. Many golfers suffer from it due to repetitive stress on the forearm muscles used during the golf swing.
What Is Tennis Elbow?
Tennis elbow occurs when the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the outside of your elbow become inflamed or irritated. This is often caused by repetitive gripping, twisting, and wrist extension motions—common in both tennis and golf.
Why Golfers Get Tennis Elbow
During a golf swing, your forearm muscles work hard to control the club, especially on the backswing and follow-through. Repeated stress on these muscles and tendons can cause tiny tears, leading to pain and inflammation.
Common risk factors include:
Poor swing mechanics
Overuse or sudden increase in play frequency
Using equipment that’s too heavy or not properly fitted
Weakness or imbalances in the forearm, wrist, or shoulder muscles
Symptoms to Watch For
Pain or burning sensation on the outside of the elbow
Weak grip strength
Difficulty holding or swinging the golf club
Pain worsens with wrist movement or gripping
How Physical Therapy Helps Golfers with Tennis Elbow
Physical therapy is a proven way to manage and prevent tennis elbow. Your PT will:
Assess your swing mechanics and recommend modifications
Use manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and inflammation
Prescribe targeted exercises to strengthen forearm, wrist, and shoulder muscles
Teach proper warm-up and stretching routines
Provide guidance on equipment adjustments to reduce strain
Tips to Prevent Tennis Elbow on the Golf Course
Warm up thoroughly before playing
Use proper grip size and club weight
Avoid sudden increases in play or practice time
Strengthen supporting muscles with specific exercises
Take breaks to rest your arm during long sessions
When to See a Physical Therapist
If you notice persistent elbow pain that affects your swing or daily activities, don’t ignore it. Early intervention can prevent worsening symptoms and help you get back on the course faster.
Ready to swing pain-free again?
Contact Rule 76 Performance for a personalized evaluation and treatment plan tailored to golfers.
📞 774-214-0691 | 💻 Rule 76 Performance | 📍 22 Front St., Worcester, MA 01608 (inside of Worcester Common Fitness)
