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Medical Epicondylitis
By Catherine Migliano, PTA

What is Medial Epicondylitis? “Golfer’s Elbow” or Medial Epicondylitis is a condition when the inner part of the elbow becomes painful and inflamed, especially to touch.

What causes it? The most common cause is overuse of the wrist flexor muscles. These muscles act to pull the palm of the hand towards the arm, and attach to the elbow at the inner part (medial epicondyle- see picture.) When the wrist

flexors are overused or overloaded the site at which they attach is stressed. This is frequently seen in golfers and baseball players due to overuse and poor body mechanics.

Picture of "Golfer Elbow"

How is it treated? Medial Epicondylitis is common and can linger if not treated promptly and correctly. Initially, the goal is to decrease inflammation and pain, promote tissue healing, and reduce muscle atrophy. RICE (rest, ice, compression, and elevation) is indicated at this stage as well. Ultrasound and soft tissue mobilization are tools a physical therapist uses to address this stage of rehab. Once inflammation and pain are addressed, emphasis is placed on flexibility, strength, and endurance, with the final goal to return to normal function. Once your rehab program is completed, it is recommended that a home program is continued, to prevent a reoccurrence.

References

Frisch, Larry MD, LaRusso, Laurie MS, ELS

Loubriat, Jocelyn-William, www.kinescalade.com

http://naxos.biomedicale.univ-paris5.fr

www.injurytreatment.com.au

www.medinfo.co.uk

www.orthosports.com.au

www.racgp.org.au

www.sportsinjuryclinic.net

www.stms.nl

www.thestretchinghandbook.com

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