Medial Epicondylitis (Golfer’s Elbow): Expert Care at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

What is Medial Epicondylitis?

Golfer’s elbow results from overuse or strain on the tendons that flex the wrist and fingers. The repetitive stress causes microtears in the tendons, leading to inflammation and pain.

Symptoms of Medial Epicondylitis

• Pain and Tenderness: Localised on the inner side of the elbow, radiating along the forearm.

• Weakness: Difficulty gripping or lifting objects.

• Stiffness: In the elbow, especially after periods of inactivity.

• Numbness or Tingling: Occasionally affecting the ring and little fingers due to nerve involvement.

Causes and Risk Factors

Common Causes

• Repetitive Motions: Activities that involve wrist flexion, such as golfing, pitching, or typing.

• Overloading the Tendons: Lifting heavy weights with improper technique.

Risk Factors

• Age: Most common in individuals aged 30–50.

• Occupation: Jobs requiring repetitive use of the wrist and arm (e.g., carpentry, plumbing).

• Sports: Activities with repetitive hand movements, like golf or baseball.

Diagnosing Golfer’s Elbow

Our team performs a thorough assessment, including:

• Physical Examination: Assessing pain, tenderness, and grip strength.

• Specific Tests: Such as the Golfer’s Elbow Test, where resisted wrist flexion reproduces symptoms.

• Imaging:

  • Ultrasound: To identify tendon damage.

  • MRI: In severe or chronic cases to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options for Medial Epicondylitis

Conservative Management

1. Rest and Activity Modification

   • Avoid activities that trigger pain.

2. Pain Relief

   • NSAIDs for managing inflammation.

   • Topical anti-inflammatory gels or creams.

3. Physiotherapy

   • Stretching: Focused on the forearm flexor muscles.

   • Strengthening: Gradual exercises to rebuild tendon resilience.

   • Manual Therapy: Techniques to release tension in the forearm and improve joint mobility.

4. Occupational Therapy

   • Ergonomic advice to minimize strain during daily activities.

5. Bracing and Supports

   • Wrist splints or counterforce braces to offload stress on the tendons.

6. Shockwave Therapy

   • Promotes tendon healing through targeted acoustic waves.

7. Injections

   • Corticosteroids for short-term relief.

   • Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections to enhance tendon repair.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is rare but may be recommended for severe cases that do not respond to conservative care. Procedures involve removing damaged tendon tissue and repairing the healthy tendons.

Rehabilitation at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Our comprehensive rehabilitation programs include:

• Therapeutic Exercises: Stretching and strengthening tailored to your condition.

• Manual Therapy: To improve tendon mobility and reduce stiffness.

• Education: Preventative strategies to reduce the risk of recurrence.

• Gradual Return to Activity: Helping you safely resume work, sports, or hobbies.

Prognosis and Prevention

With early treatment, most individuals recover fully within weeks to months. Consistent therapy and adherence to prevention strategies reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Why Choose Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health?

At Palms Physiotherapy, we combine evidence-based treatments with personalised care to help you recover and thrive. Our team works collaboratively to address your pain and improve your quality of life.

Contact Us Today

If you’re experiencing symptoms of golfer’s elbow, our skilled team at Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health is here to help. Reach out to us at our Malaga or Noranda locations to book your personalized assessment and start your recovery journey.