Medial epicondylitis known as golfer's elbow is an overuse injury of the medial elbow that affects athletes, especially golfers.
The medial epicondyle is the point on the medial humeral condyle where tendon attachments are made. This is on the inner side of the elbow.
Several muscles of the forearm attach here, including ones that help grip and twia
Overuse of these tendons will cause tension across this area which produces micro-traumas to the tendons. These traumas accumulate resulting in degeneration of the tendon which can lead to acute pain during activity or chronic pain at rest
What are the symptoms of golfer's elbow?
- Pain on inner bony bump of elbow
- pain with gripping activities of the hands, wrist extensors and wrist flexors.
- Pain while trying to make a fist or grasp an object.
How is medial epicondylitis treated?
Most of the time, golfer’s elbow can be treated without surgery. Rest and use of elbow brace to take pressure off the tendons is very important. Ice on inner side of the elbow can help relieve pain, but heat can help improve the function before beginning exercise. You should avoid painful activities such as pinching, gripping, wrist flexion. Physical Therapy and massage can also help with golfer’s elbow pain.
