This article was published on: 08/3/21 11:53 AM
Medial epicondylitis is also known as golfer’s elbow, baseball elbow, suitcase elbow, or forehand tennis elbow is a form of tendonitis which is characterized by pain from the elbow to the wrist on the inside (medial side) of the elbow.
It is caused by the overuse or general wear and tear of the tendons, bones, and muscles in this area, which are used for grasping or flexing the wrist. Actions like throwing rocks, climbing, swinging an axe, swinging a racket or bat, carrying heavy loads like suitcases or boxes, weightlifting, etc may lead to a golfer’s elbow.
Golfer’s elbow usually manifests itself in pain along the palm side of the forearm, from the elbow to the wrist, on the same side as the little finger. Other symptoms may include stiffness in your elbow, tingling or numbness in the fingers (usually the ring/little finger), and/or weakness in the wrist/forearm. Sharp pain is felt when gripping an object tightly or bending the wrist.
If the pain is noticeable and interferes with day-to-day activities, a visit to the doctor is recommended. Golfer’s elbow is diagnosed by conducting a physical exam. The doctor may apply pressure to the affected area or ask you to raise the hand by bending the wrist against resistance. If you are suffering from golfer’s elbow then pain is felt on the inner side of the elbow during such an examination.
The first step in treating medial epicondylitis is stopping the activity that seems to be causing it. The movement of the affected area should be minimized. The doctor may then recommend ice pack application to help with inflammation, antiinflammatory medication, bracing, corticosteroid injections, and strengthening exercises. Exercises may include wrist extension and flexion, with/without resistance (weights), and stretches. Surgery is very rarely recommended.
There are steps one may take to prevent a golfer’s elbow. This includes taking steps to strengthen your muscles by light weight lifting exercise or squeezing a tennis ball for 5 minutes daily, making sure not to twist your elbow or wrist or lift heavy loads in awkward positions, warming up before playing any sports, and staying hydrated during any physical activity.
