Medial epicondylitis or golfer's elbow is a condition that affects the medial side of the elbow in both athletes and non-athletes. Patients with this condition experience pain over the medial epicondyle. Weakness and pain are also commonly associated with this condition. Golfer's elbow can cause even the simplest of daily activities like pouring water more challenging.
Much like tennis elbow, medial epicondylitis will resolve with conservative treatments. A physical therapy program will help improve the strength of the elbow and forearm muscles. Cortisone injections may also help alleviate pain. It is crucial to note that these injections should be limited because they have adverse side effects regarding the tendon and put the tendon at risk of more tearing.
Those whose symptoms do not improve with conservative treatments, platelet-rich plasma injections, or surgery become viable options. PRP injections do not have the same risks as cortisone injections associated with them. Surgery for the golfer's elbow is done through a small incision. The surgeon removes the torn tissue and repairs the healthy-appearing tendon back to its insertion on the medial epicondyle. This is an out-patient surgery, and postoperative care involves wearing a splint for the first week and starting physical therapy after. The patient can return to their sport three months post-op.
