Physical & Occupational Therapy for Elbow Sprains & Strains

After swelling and pain in the elbow have subsided, doctors may recommend physical therapy to rebuild strength and flexibility in the muscles that support the elbow and restore full range of motion to the joint. This therapy typically begins two or three weeks after an injury occurs and continues for six to eight weeks.

Physical therapists and occupational therapists, including certified hand therapists, at NYU Langone’s Rusk Rehabilitation may recommend simple exercises. These can be performed at home to reduce pain, improve mobility, and restore function to the area after a strain or sprain. For instance, stretching the wrist or squeezing a tennis ball in the hand can help build strength in the muscles of the forearm.

As the muscles, tendons, and ligaments of your elbow grow stronger, your care team guides you in returning to more vigorous activity, such as playing tennis. Our therapists can show you ways to participate in sports or daily activities that help prevent future elbow injuries.