Introduction to Medial Epicondylitis (Golfers
Elbow)
Medial epicondylitis is commonly referred to as
Golfer's Elbow. It affects the tendons on the inside
of the elbow, at the medial epicondyle. The muscles
originate at the medial epicondyle and run toward
the wrist on the inside of the arm. Golfer's elbow
is similar to tennis elbow, but is on the inside of
the arm instead of the outside.
Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow
Pain often begins slowly starting at the elbow
and can run toward the hand and into the ring and
little finger. Tingling and numbness are also common
symptoms. A tightness in the inside forearm muscles
and weakness with activities is common.
Elbow pain becomes worse with grabbing or holding
objects, prolonged hand activities or grabbing a
ball. Many people describe pain that slowly
decreases over time and results in sore muscles that
feel better when rubbed.
Risk Factors and Causes of Medial Epicondylitis
The repeated use of the hand or wrist initially
causes muscle tightness and soreness that eventually
leads to small tendon injuries. Repeated small
injuries will lead to greater tendon injuries that
eventually lead to pronounced symptoms and pain.
Any repeated hand or wrist activity can causes
medial epicondylitis, especially if forceful hand
movements are involved, such as hard gripping,
twisting, or sustained wrist flexor muscle
contraction. Poor lifting form increases the stress
to the medial epicondyle and accelerates injury to
the elbow.
Complications or Factors That Delay Healing of Medial Epicondylitis
Individuals who use their hand and wrists
throughout the day often aggravate their condition
and delay healing. Working with your provider to
modify activities will improve the rate of healing
and reduce flare ups.
Home Treatment for Golfer's Elbow
Golfer's elbow can often be treated at home by
rest, ice, and braces. However, if the pain fails to
disappear within a couple of weeks, further
treatment is often required. Chronic conditions can
last weeks to months. If weakness or tingling
becomes more intense or frequent, it is a sign to
seek immediate treatment.
In Office Treatment of Medial Epicondylitis
Goals of treatment are reducing the muscles
spasms and decreasing the inflammation through
physiotherapy, stretching, exercises, and massage
therapy. Proper treatment involves a provider
actively working the muscles and tendons through
muscle therapy or manual treatments. Relaxing the
muscles and decreasing the spasms will dramatically
reduce the stress on the tendons. Techniques such as
Graston Technique or Active Release Technique will
further increase the speed of healing. These
techniques reduce scar tissue in the injured tissue
and dramatically reduce the elbow pain, especially
in chronic conditions.
Medial epicondylitis can be successfully treated,
and can help you quickly return to your normal
activities. For further treatment details click onto
services page link and read about Graston Technique
and other treatment therapies used for medial
epicondylitis.
Back to Chiropractic Resources
 Dr. Carson Robertson is in private practice at
Alpha Chiropractic. His clinic services the
chiropractic, massage therapy, and physiotherapy
needs of the Chandler, Ahwatukee, and Gilbert area.
He has a special interest in athletics, running, and
soft tissue injuries. Carson Robertson DC can be
reached at (480) 812-1800. |
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