Common Conditions

Elbow Problems We Treat

Our physiotherapists are experienced in managing a wide range of elbow conditions, from acute overuse injuries to post-surgical stiffness.

Lateral Epicondylalgia (Tennis Elbow)

Degenerative tendinopathy of the common extensor origin at the lateral epicondyle, causing pain with gripping, lifting and wrist extension — common in both athletes and desk workers.

Medial Epicondylalgia (Golfer’s Elbow)

Tendinopathy of the common flexor-pronator origin at the medial epicondyle, producing medial elbow pain with gripping, forearm pronation and wrist flexion activities.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome

Compression or traction of the ulnar nerve at the elbow causing medial elbow pain, tingling and numbness in the ring and little fingers, and weakness of intrinsic hand muscles.

Olecranon Bursitis

Inflammation of the olecranon bursa at the tip of the elbow, resulting in swelling, tenderness and restricted movement. Can be acute traumatic or chronic from repetitive pressure.

Elbow Stiffness (Post-fracture / Post-surgery)

Loss of elbow extension and/or flexion following fracture, dislocation or surgical intervention, requiring structured mobilisation and progressive exercise to restore functional range.

Biceps & Triceps Tendinopathy

Overload-related tendinopathy of the distal biceps or triceps tendons causing pain with resisted elbow flexion or extension, particularly in weightlifters and throwing athletes.

How We Assess & Treat

Our Elbow Rehabilitation Approach

1

Load & Tissue Assessment

Grip strength measurement, neural tension tests and careful palpation of the epicondyles and tendons to accurately characterise the diagnosis and load tolerance.

2

Offload & Desensitise

Activity modification advice combined with manual therapy, dry needling and shockwave therapy to reduce pain sensitivity and allow tendon healing to begin.

3

Isometric Loading

Pain-free isometric tendon loading exercises to initiate tendon remodelling and reduce cortical inhibition without aggravating the injured tissue.

4

Progressive Eccentric & Heavy Slow Resistance

A structured 3–4 times per week programme over 8–12 weeks, progressively increasing tendon load to drive collagen remodelling and restore full strength.

5

Sport / Work Return

Sport-specific or task-specific drills reintroduced progressively, with equipment and technique review to address the contributing biomechanical factors.

Physiotherapist providing elbow treatment

FAQs

Common Questions About Elbow Treatment

Yes. Even chronic lateral epicondylalgia responds well to structured loading programmes combined with manual therapy. The key is applying the right type and volume of load to stimulate tendon remodelling at the appropriate stage.

Counterforce bracing can reduce pain short-term by offloading the tendon origin. We assess whether it is appropriate for your specific activity demands and ensure it does not become a long-term crutch substituting for rehabilitation.

Dry needling targets trigger points in the forearm muscles, reducing pain and sensitivity alongside exercise. It is particularly useful in the early stages to allow participation in the loading programme with less discomfort.

Injections can provide temporary pain relief but do not address the underlying tendon pathology. We work with orthopaedic specialists if injection is considered, ensuring it is followed by a structured rehabilitation programme to achieve lasting outcomes.

Elbow Conditions & Treatment