Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)

Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, affects the inner side of the elbow. Like tennis elbow, it is an overuse injury causing pain, tenderness, and reduced strength during gripping, swinging, or lifting.

What Causes Golfer’s Elbow?

Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons connecting forearm muscles to the inner elbow are overworked. It is common in:

• Golfers or baseball players

• People performing repetitive gripping or wrist flexion movements

• Weightlifters or manual laborers

• Individuals who repeatedly twist or bend the wrist

Evidence Supporting Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow

Although research is slightly less abundant than for tennis elbow, studies show promising results:

• A 2016 clinical trial in Physiotherapy Theory and Practice found that ESWT reduced pain and improved function in patients with medial epicondylitis after 4–6 weeks of treatment.

• The Cochrane Database review (2022) concluded that shockwave therapy is effective for chronic tendinopathies, including medial epicondylitis, especially for patients who have failed conventional therapy.

Benefits of Shockwave Therapy for Golfer’s Elbow:

• Speeds up tendon healing and collagen regeneration

• Relieves pain and inflammation

• Restores grip strength and functional movement

• Minimally invasive with no recovery downtime

What to Expect During Treatment

Sessions typically last 5–10 minutes. A gel is applied, and shockwaves are delivered to the inner elbow. Most patients need 3–5 sessions over a few weeks. Temporary redness or mild soreness is normal.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for You?

Shockwave therapy is safe and effective for chronic tennis or golfer’s elbow, but it is not recommended for:

• Individuals with blood clotting disorders

• Pregnant women

• People with infections or tumors near the treatment site

Book Shockwave Therapy in Auckland

At Care Rehab Physio, we specialize in treating tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow using advanced shockwave therapy. Our treatments are tailored to your condition, helping you reduce pain, improve function, and get back to your daily activities.