Elbow Pain Physiotherapy
Elbow pain may be felt around the outer, inner or back of the elbow and can become more noticeable during lifting, gripping, wrist movement, pushing or repeated use of the arm. Some people may also notice forearm tightness, reduced grip strength or difficulty with work, sport and everyday upper-limb activities.
If pain is mainly focused around the outer side of the elbow and is aggravated by lifting, gripping or wrist movement, you may also refer to [Tennis Elbow Physiotherapy]. If pain is mainly on the inner side and is aggravated by gripping or wrist flexion, [Golfer’s Elbow Physiotherapy] may also be relevant.
Common symptoms
- Pain or tenderness around the outer, inner or nearby elbow region
- Symptoms becoming more noticeable during lifting, gripping or wrist movement
- Discomfort after repetitive arm use, work or sport
- Forearm tightness or reduced grip strength
- Pain during pushing, supporting body weight or other arm-loading activities
How physiotherapy assesses
Physiotherapy usually begins by looking at where the elbow pain is felt, when it occurs, and how lifting, gripping, wrist movement, pushing or other everyday activities affect the symptoms. Where appropriate, elbow and wrist movement, forearm strength, grip strength, upper-limb movement and loading may also be assessed to identify factors associated with the symptoms and activity limitations. Depending on the symptom pattern, the wrist, shoulder or neck may also need to be considered.
Further medical assessment may be appropriate if elbow pain follows significant trauma and is associated with marked swelling, deformity or severe restriction of movement.
How physiotherapy may help
Physiotherapy may include activity modification, elbow and forearm exercises, grip and upper-limb strengthening, and graded progression of lifting, gripping, work or sport-related loading according to the symptom presentation and activity needs. Rehabilitation is adjusted according to symptom response and individual functional goals.
Related Conditions
Tennis Elbow
Golfer’s Elbow
Wrist Pain
Not sure whether your condition falls into this category?
You may first arrange a physiotherapy assessment to understand the more suitable management approach according to your symptoms, activity needs, and rehabilitation goals.