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Epicondylopathy (Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow)

Epicondylopathy is a condition involving irritation or degeneration of the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the elbow. It commonly appears as golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylopathy) or tennis elbow (lateral epicondylopathy). Physical therapy helps reduce pain, restore strength, and improve arm function.

Have you noticed pain or tenderness on the inside or outside of your elbow when gripping objects, lifting, or using your hand for repetitive tasks? These symptoms may indicate epicondylopathy, commonly known as golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow.

Despite the names, these conditions are not limited to athletes. Many people in Washington, DC develop epicondylopathy from everyday activities such as typing, lifting, or manual work.

At Rose Physical Therapy, with convenient locations in Navy Yard, Friendship Heights, and Farragut North, our experienced physical therapists specialize in identifying and treating the underlying causes of elbow tendon pain so you can regain strength and return to normal activity.

Understanding Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow

Epicondylopathy refers to a condition affecting the tendons of the forearm muscles where they attach to the elbow. These tendons connect to small bony structures called epicondyles.

Two common forms include:

Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylopathy)

This condition affects the inner (medial) side of the elbow and involves the tendons responsible for wrist flexion and forearm rotation.

Golfer’s elbow is often associated with:

  • Golf swings

  • Throwing motions

  • Repetitive gripping activities

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylopathy)

This condition affects the outer (lateral) side of the elbow and involves the tendons responsible for wrist extension.

Tennis elbow commonly develops from repetitive arm use such as:

  • Racquet sports

  • Typing or mouse use

  • Lifting or gripping tools

Both conditions develop when the forearm tendons become overloaded and unable to recover properly.

Causes of Epicondylopathy

Epicondylopathy typically develops from repetitive strain or overuse.

Common contributing factors include:

  • Repetitive wrist and elbow motions

  • Overuse of forearm muscles

  • Improper technique during sports or exercise

  • Weakness or imbalance in the forearm muscles

  • Sudden increases in activity level

  • Direct trauma to the elbow

Occupations involving frequent arm use, such as manual labor, desk work, and skilled trades, can also increase the risk.

Epicondylopathy vs. Epicondylitis

You may hear the terms epicondylopathy and epicondylitis used interchangeably.

While epicondylitis refers specifically to inflammation of the tendon, epicondylopathy is a broader term that includes tendon degeneration and chronic tendon dysfunction.

Most long-standing cases involve tendon degeneration rather than active inflammation, which is why treatment focuses on improving tendon strength and function.

Symptoms of Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow

Symptoms often develop gradually and may worsen with activity.

Common symptoms include:

  • Pain or tenderness on the inside or outside of the elbow

  • Pain that radiates into the forearm

  • Reduced grip strength

  • Difficulty lifting or holding objects

  • Stiffness in the elbow, especially in the morning

  • Pain when twisting the forearm or making a fist

In some cases, individuals may also experience mild numbness or tingling in the fingers, though this is less common.

How Epicondylopathy Is Diagnosed

At Rose Physical Therapy, your evaluation begins with a comprehensive assessment.

Your physical therapist may evaluate:

  • History and timeline of your symptoms

  • Activities that worsen or relieve pain

  • Elbow, wrist, and shoulder range of motion

  • Forearm and grip strength

  • Nerve mobility and irritation

  • Functional movements such as gripping or lifting

This evaluation helps determine the underlying cause of tendon irritation and guide your treatment plan.

Physical Therapy Treatment for Epicondylopathy

At Rose Physical Therapy, treatment focuses on relieving pain while improving the strength and resilience of the affected tendons.

Your personalized treatment plan may include:

Manual Therapy

Hands-on techniques such as:

  • Joint mobilization to improve elbow and wrist movement

  • Soft tissue mobilization to reduce tension in the forearm muscles

Dry Needling

Dry needling may be used to release trigger points and improve muscle function in the forearm.

Strengthening Exercises

Targeted strengthening helps restore tendon capacity and reduce strain during daily activities.

Exercises may focus on:

  • Forearm muscles

  • Wrist stabilizers

  • Shoulder and upper arm muscles

Mobility Exercises

Improving flexibility and movement of the elbow, wrist, and shoulder helps reduce stress on the tendons.

Activity Modification

Your therapist will help identify movements that aggravate your symptoms and provide strategies to reduce stress on the elbow during daily activities.

Personalized Home Exercise Program

You will receive a customized home program designed to continue strengthening and recovery outside the clinic.

Epicondylopathy Treatment in Washington, DC

Elbow pain from golfer’s elbow or tennis elbow can interfere with work, sports, and everyday activities. With proper treatment, most people can recover fully and return to normal use of their arm.

At Rose Physical Therapy, our clinicians provide one-on-one care focused on identifying the root cause of your symptoms and guiding your recovery.

If you are experiencing elbow pain, stiffness, or grip weakness, schedule an evaluation at one of our Washington, DC locations:

Farragut North
Friendship Heights
Navy Yard

Our team is ready to help you regain strength, function, and confidence in your elbow.