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UK Orthopaedics
Health Information
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Epicondylitis (Golfer's Elbow)
From Jobe FW: Operative Techniques in Upper Extremity
Sports Injuries. St. Louis, Mosby Year Book, 1996, p. 441.
Description
Medical epicondylitis is characterized by inflammation and pain on the inner
side of the elbow where muscles and tendons attach to the bone. The structures
involved are the muscles and tendons of the forearm that bring your wrist down
(flex the wrist). This occurs not only in golfers but in anyone who performs
repeated resisted motions of the wrist. Without proper intervention, this may
develop into a chronic problem.
Common Signs and Symptoms
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Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
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Pain or weakness with gripping activities
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Pain with twisting motions of the wrist, such as using a screwdriver, playing golf or bowling
Treatment
Initial treatment consists of ice to relieve pain, stretching and strengthening
exercises, and modification of the activity that initially caused the problem.
These can all be carried out at home for acute cases. Chronic cases often
require referral to a physical therapist or athletic trainer for further
evaluation and treatment. A counterforce (“tennis elbow”) brace may be recommended to reduce the forces to the damaged tendon. If symptoms persist, an injection of cortisone and anesthetics or surgical intervention may be required. Surgery is occasionally necessary to excise the damaged tissue. This is done on an outpatient basis (you go home the same day), with resumption of sports at 3 to 6 months.
 More on sports related injuries
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