Medial Epicondylitis Evaluated & Treated by Orthopedic Specialists in Freehold & Monroe Township, NJ
Medial epicondylitis is an overuse injury that affects the tendons of the forearm muscles that attach to the bony bump on the inside of the elbow. Typically, the damage develops gradually due to excessive or repetitive stress caused by forceful wrist or finger motions. Because these motions are used to swing a golf club, medial epicondylitis affects many golfers; in fact, the condition is frequently referred to as golfer’s elbow. However, medial epicondylitis is not limited to golfers – it is also common among people who participate in racquet sports, throwing activities, or weight training, as well as those who perform carpentry or plumbing work.
What Are the Symptoms of Medial Epicondylitis?
The most common symptom of golfer’s elbow is tenderness on the inner side of the elbow. Usually, the condition can be diagnosed based on a physical examination that includes resting the affected arm on a table, palm side up, and bending the wrist upward against resistance. Elbow pain with this movement is a telltale sign of medial epicondylitis.
How Is Medial Epicondylitis Treated?
The most important aspect of treatment for golfer’s elbow is temporarily avoiding any activities that cause or worsen the symptoms. Other options include:
- Ice applications to relieve painful swelling
- Exercises to strengthen the forearm muscles
- A counterforce brace to reduce tension on the affected tendon
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation
After the pain subsides, a gradual return to activity is best. It can be helpful to practice the arm motions involved in a particular sport before going all in.
While surgical treatment is usually unnecessary for medial epicondylitis, surgery may be considered to address severe symptoms that do not respond to several months of conservative treatment. One option may be a minimally invasive TENEX procedure, which involves an ultrasound-guided removal of scar tissue around an affected tendon.
Discuss Your Medial Epicondylitis With an Expert
If you’d like to discuss your elbow pain with an expert at Advanced Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Institute, contact us to schedule an appointment at our office in Freehold or Monroe Township, NJ, today.
