Dr. Mark E. Pruzansky
Dr. Jason S. Pruzansky
975 Park Avenue New York, NY 10028

Medial Epicondylitis

What is Medial Epicondylitis

Medial epicondylitis is a condition resulting from overuse and the subsequent inflammation of the tendons that join the flexor and pronator forearm muscles to the humerus bone at the inner elbow’s medial epicondyle.

This most frequently occurs when you stress the medial epicondyle through repeated flexion, which causes muscle hypertrophy and tendon inflammation in the area. Since the motion that causes this condition is so unique, the colloquial name for this condition is golfer’s elbow.

Medial epicondylitis causes pain to occur from the elbow to the medial side of the forearm. Stiffness and tenderness may also occur due to the inflammation of the tendon, which could restrict the mobility of your arm

Causes of Medial Epicondylitis

Medial epicondylitis is caused by repeated flexion of the muscles and tendons that attach the humerus bone to the radius and wrist. Most frequently, athletes who play golf or tennis, people who do weight training, or individuals whose job requires repeated forceful motions may develop medial epicondylitis.

Part of a golfer’s swing requires the muscle and its tendinous attachments to lengthen while it is contracting. This type of motion is forceful and requires adequate conditioning in order to prevent this injury from occurring.

Signs and Symptoms of Medial Epicondylitis

Common in the dominant elbow of golfers, tennis players, pitchers, and carpenters, the condition is indicated by pain and tenderness. and marked weakness of the hand and wrist.

Most commonly, an individual or athlete affected by medial epicondylitis will notice signs of stiffness or soreness while playing their sport or going through a repetitive motion. They may also notice a loss of strength while performing this movement.

Treatment Options for Medial Epicondylitis

Medial Epicondylitis normally responds to rest, icing, anti-inflammatory medication, and physical therapy.

Depending on the severity of your case, your specialized team at HandSport Surgery Institute may create a treatment plan that includes Platelet rich plasma (PRP) or cortisone injection.

Athletes who develop medial epicondylitis may benefit from evaluating their form in order to prevent this condition from getting worse or returning over time.

In resistant cases, surgery is needed to remove the damaged piece of tendon and reattach the healthy part to the bone.

If You Are Experiencing Pain in Your Wrist, Forearm, or Elbow, Please Contact Us

Please contact us as soon as possible to schedule an appointment with our talented team. Call Dr. Mark and Jason Pruzansky at 212-249-8700 to schedule an appointment, obtain an accurate diagnosis, and treat your medial epicondylitis so that you can get back to the activities you enjoy.