Golfer's Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis) in San Antonio, TX
What Is Golfer's Elbow?
Medial epicondylitis — golfer's elbow — is the medial counterpart to tennis elbow. It involves degenerative changes at the common flexor-pronator origin on the medial epicondyle, the bony prominence on the inner side of the elbow. The pain localizes to the inner elbow and wrist flexion against resistance is typically the most provocative movement.
Like tennis elbow, the name is misleading. I treat this condition in construction workers, baseball pitchers, rock climbers and desk workers who perform repetitive gripping and forearm rotation. Golfers are a minority of the population with this diagnosis.
The UCL Overlap — Why a Careful Examination Matters
Medial elbow pain in throwing athletes has a critical differential diagnosis that must not be missed: ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) insufficiency. The UCL and the flexor-pronator origin are anatomically adjacent and share the same provocative maneuvers. Treating medial epicondylitis in a pitcher who actually has UCL damage produces months of wasted therapy and delayed appropriate care.
I perform a thorough physical examination and, when appropriate, order MRI or ultrasound to distinguish between these diagnoses before beginning any treatment. The treatment pathways diverge significantly.
Treatment
The approach to medial epicondylitis mirrors lateral — physical therapy and eccentric strengthening as the foundation, PRP injection for recalcitrant cases, and surgical release as a last resort after 6 to 12 months of failure to respond. I also assess for ulnar nerve involvement at the cubital tunnel, which frequently coexists with medial epicondylitis and can perpetuate symptoms if not addressed.
Ready to take the next step? Call (210) 878-4113 or request an appointment at sportssurgeryspecialist.com.
