Medial Elbow Tendinopathy (Golfer’s Elbow)

Medial Elbow Tendinopathy (Golfer’s Elbow) is a condition that affects the tendons on the inside of the elbow. These tendons connect muscles of the forearm to the bone and help control wrist and finger movements. The condition causes pain and tenderness near the elbow, especially when gripping or bending the wrist. It often results from repetitive stress or overuse, such as in sports like golf or activities involving frequent wrist flexion. This can lead to inflammation and small tears in the tendons, making everyday tasks uncomfortable. The musculoskeletal system is primarily involved, and the pain can limit arm strength and function.

Medial Elbow Tendinopathy (Golfer’s Elbow) is characterized by degenerative changes and microtears in the common flexor tendon origin at the medial epicondyle of the humerus. It is primarily caused by repetitive wrist flexion and forearm pronation activities leading to chronic overuse injury. The pathology involves tendinosis rather than acute inflammation, with collagen disorganization and fibroblast proliferation. Clinically, it presents with medial elbow pain, tenderness over the medial epicondyle, and pain exacerbated by resisted wrist flexion or forearm pronation. It is important to distinguish this from other causes of medial elbow pain such as ulnar neuropathy or medial collateral ligament injury. The condition can significantly impair grip strength and functional use of the arm.