What causes Medial Epicondylitis or golfer's elbow?
Medial Epicondylitis or golfer's elbow is caused by overuse or repetitive strain on the muscles and tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the elbow. Specifically, the condition results from small tears in the tendons that attach the forearm muscles to the inner side of the elbow.
Some common causes of Medial Epicondylitis include:
Repetitive gripping activities: Activities that involve repetitive gripping and wrist flexion, such as golf, tennis, or baseball, can lead to Medial Epicondylitis.
Improper technique: Using improper technique during sports or other activities can increase the risk of developing Medial Epicondylitis. For example, using a golf swing that puts too much stress on the elbow or using a tennis grip that is too small.
Muscle imbalance: Weakness in the forearm muscles or an imbalance between the forearm muscles can put excessive strain on the tendons, leading to Medial Epicondylitis.
Age: As we age, our tendons become less flexible and more susceptible to injury.
Previous injury: A previous injury to the elbow, forearm, or wrist can increase the risk of developing Medial Epicondylitis.
Overall, the condition is more common in athletes and people who perform repetitive motions with their arms and wrists, but it can also occur in individuals who perform manual labor or other activities that involve repetitive gripping or lifting.
Medial Epicondylitis or golfer's elbow is a condition that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the elbow. It is a type of overuse injury that is common among golfers, but it can also affect other athletes or people who perform repetitive gripping or throwing activities.
Steps you can take to rehabilitate Medial Epicondylitis:
Rest: The first step in rehabilitating golfer's elbow is to rest the affected arm as much as possible. Avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.
Ice: Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times a day, to reduce inflammation and pain.
Stretching and Strengthening Exercises: Physical therapy exercises can help to stretch and strengthen the muscles and tendons in the affected area. A physical therapist can recommend specific exercises based on your individual needs.
Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Bracing: Wearing a brace or splint can help to reduce strain on the affected tendons and promote healing.
Corticosteroid injections: In some cases, a doctor may recommend a corticosteroid injection to reduce inflammation and pain.
Gradual return to activity: Once the pain has subsided and the tendons have healed, gradually return to your normal activities while being careful not to overdo it. You may need to make adjustments to your technique or equipment to prevent a recurrence of golfer's elbow.
Interesting statistics about medial epicondylitis:
Medial Epicondylitis is also known as "golfer's elbow" because it is a common injury among golfers. However, it can also occur in other athletes and individuals who perform repetitive gripping or throwing activities.
Medial Epicondylitis accounts for 7-10% of all elbow injuries.
The condition is more common in men than women and typically affects individuals between the ages of 30 and 50 years.
In a study of 542 professional golfers, 34% reported a history of Medial Epicondylitis.
The prevalence of Medial Epicondylitis in the general population is estimated to be around 1-3%.
The condition can be a chronic problem, with up to 50% of patients reporting persistent symptoms beyond 6 months.
The use of proper technique and equipment can help to prevent the development of Medial Epicondylitis.
Early diagnosis and treatment of the condition can lead to better outcomes and a faster return to normal activities.
Overall, Medial Epicondylitis is a common overuse injury that can cause significant pain and discomfort. However, with proper treatment and rehabilitation, most individuals can recover and return to their normal activities. It's important to work with a healthcare professional to develop an individualized rehabilitation plan that is tailored to your specific needs and goals. Email us or call us to schedule a free physical therapy consultation today.