Medial Epicondylitis anatomical view

Medial Epicondylitis, commonly referred to as Golfer’s elbow, occurs when there is inflammation on the common flexor origin (medial epicondyle). The muscles attached to the medial epicondyle which are most affected are the pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, palmaris longus (Radomski, 2014).
Symptoms:

  • Elbow Pain and stiffness on the inside of the elbow.
  • Weakness in the hand or wrist.
  • Numbness and tingling from the medial elbow to the ring and little finger.

Common activities that increase symptoms of medial epicondylitis are repetitive rotation (pronation) and flexion of the wrist. In other words, forcefully rotating the palm down and pulling with the wrist flexed repetitively (think of swinging a golf club AKA Golfers Elbow). Pushing or extending the elbow with the palm facing up (supinated) can cause elbow pain as well.
Activities that can cause this are related to the following:

  • Typing
  • Turning wrenches or screw drivers
  • Golfing
  • Tennis
  • Any repetitive activity that could require force when rotating the wrist.

Symptoms can be similar to cubital tunnel syndrome, cervical impingement, and even shoulder or wrist problems. It’s always a good idea to consult your doctor to ensure nothing more serious is happening.

Treatment

Conservative treatment (also with corticosteroid injections)

  • Moist Heat and Ice
  • Active and passive stretching
  • Aircast Counterforce brace
  • Wrist immobilization orthotic
  • Gentle strengthening when appropriate
Medial Epicondylitis / Golfers Elbow Explained

Reference

Radomski, M.V., Trombly Latham, C.A. (2014).  Occupational therapy for physical dysfunction, 7th edition.  Philadelphia, PA.  Lippincott.   ISBN:  978-1-4511-2746-1.

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