Medial epicondylitis - Golfer's elbow

Very low urgency
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Medial epicondylitis or Golfer's elbow is an inflammation of the tendon where the epitrochlear muscles insert, on the inner side of the distal end of the humerus.

It is usually produced by repeating elbow and wrist flexion with rotation of the forearm that places the palm of the hand down and in.

It is characterized by pain in the inner side of the elbow that may extend to the inner edge of the forearm and a feeling of cramping in the arm, forearm and hand. The pain increases on palpation of the area and when extending or flexing the wrist.

The diagnosis is performed through clinical questioning and physical exploration of the area.

Treatment includes resting of the limb, anti-inflammatory drugs, local infiltration of corticosteroids and physiotherapy. In severe cases that do not respond to any of the previous treatments, surgery may be required.

Bibliographic references
  1. Francis G O'Connor, MD, MPH, FACSM. Evaluation of elbow pain in adults. UpToDate. Oct 06, 2015.
  2. Jie KE, van Dam LF, Verhagen TF, Hammacher ER. Extension test and ossal point tenderness cannot accurately exclude significant injury in acute elbow trauma. Ann Emerg Med 2014; 64:74.
  3. Appelboam A, Reuben AD, Benger JR, et al. Elbow extension test to rule out elbow fracture: multicentre, prospective validation and observational study of diagnostic accuracy in adults and children. BMJ 2008; 337:a2428.
  4. Dawson DM. Entrapment neuropathies of the upper extremities. N Engl J Med 1993; 329:2013.
Author
Dr. Elvira Moreno
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Elbow pain


    Pain in the inner side of the elbow


    Elbow pain of the most commonly used arm


    Numbness in arm, forearm and/or hand


    Inner side of the elbow pain to the forearm

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Pain increases with palpation and/or bruises appear

Self-care

If you have pain, use over-the-counter pain relievers.
Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Avoid sudden movements.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.