Medial & Lateral Epicondylitis

Medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer’s elbow or Little Leaguer’s elbow (children) is caused by repetitive micro-trauma to the flexor tendons of the forearm. Tennis elbow also known as lateral epicondylitis, is caused by repetitive micro-trauma to the extensor tendons of the forearm. Generally, this condition is caused by repetitive activities that include hand grasping or high torque wrist turning which place pressure on the extensor tendons.

Evaluating Your Condition

WHAT CAUSES MEDIAL AND LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS?

The pathophysiology of golfer’s elbow is initially caused by microtearing at the origin of the flexor tendons of the forearm (pronator teres, flexor carpi radialis, and flexor carpi ulnaris and the palmaris longus). Golfer’s elbow occurs in patients engaged in repetitive flexion activities such as throwing baseballs, carrying heavy suitcase, and driving golf balls. Lateral epicondylitis is often caused by activities that require repetitive wrist extension and or forearm supination (turning of the wrist with the palm facing up). This is commonly seen in athletes in sports such as tennis where a back hand stroke can place stress on the extensor tendons.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF MEDIAL AND LATERAL EPICONDYLITIS?

  • Constant/Increasing Pain
  • Tenderness

Common Treatments Available for Medial & Lateral Epicondylitis