In 40 seconds
Golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis / epicondylar tendinopathy) is the mirror image of tennis elbow. Wrist flexor tendinopathy at the medial epicondyle, caused by golf swing mechanics or repetitive gripping. PEMF therapy reduces inflammation and supports tenocyte repair, alongside eccentric wrist flexor loading.
Quick facts
- Affects: Up to 5% of golfers
- Standard care: Eccentric loading + swing review
- PEMF role: Reduces inflammation, supports tenocyte repair
- Avoid: Steroid injection (rupture risk)
- Recovery: 6–12 weeks typical
Why this injury happens in this sport
Repeated loaded wrist flexion + grip force overloads the common flexor tendon. Lower-grade golfers are more affected — pros have better swing mechanics.
Recovery and return to sport
PEMF 2–3× per week alongside eccentric wrist flexor loading. Swing review by a teaching pro. Most golfers return in 8–12 weeks.
Contraindications
Hard exclusions — do not have PEMF if any apply:
- Pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), or any cardiac electronic device
- Cochlear implant or other implanted electronic hearing device
- Spinal cord stimulator, deep-brain stimulator, vagus nerve stimulator
- Intrathecal pump or implanted drug pump
- Insulin pump (continuous glucose monitors are usually fine — confirm with the clinic)
- Active infection at the treatment site
- Pregnancy — when treatment would be over the abdomen, lumbar spine, or pelvis
Discuss with your GP or specialist before booking if any apply:
- Active malignancy or recent cancer history (oncologist clearance required)
- History of seizures or epilepsy
- Multiple sclerosis or other neurological condition under specialist care
- Anticoagulant therapy (PEMF itself does not thin blood, but bruising risk if local circulation is already compromised)
- Children under 14 (most UK clinics will not treat under-18s without paediatric specialist input)
- Recent surgery within the last 14 days at the treatment site (confirm with surgeon)
NOT contraindications — these are commonly misunderstood:
- Plates, rods, screws and other passive metal orthopaedic hardware
- Dental implants and dental crowns
- Joint replacements (hip, knee, shoulder)
- IUDs (copper or hormonal)
- Tattoos and piercings (jewellery should be removed for the session)
Specific to this condition: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, insulin pumps, electronic implants; active malignancy without specialist clearance; pregnancy (over the abdomen); active infection; epilepsy without GP clearance.
Frequently asked questions
Tennis elbow vs golfer's elbow?
Same condition, different side. Tennis = lateral epicondyle, common extensor. Golfer's = medial epicondyle, common flexor.
Worth changing grip?
Sometimes — overly tight grip is a common cause. A teaching pro can guide.
Looking for a PEMF clinic near you?
We list every credible PEMF therapy provider in the UK so you can find one near home.