Shoulder & Elbow :. tennis elbow

OVERVIEW

This condition is the result of damage to the tendons that bend the wrist toward the palm of the hand. Although it is often referred to as golfer's elbow, medial epicondylitis can be caused by any repititious use of these muscles.

INSIDE THE ELBOW

The muscles that pull the wrist down are called flexor muscles. These muscles join together and attach to a single tendon at the elbow. This tendon, called the common flexor tendon, attaches to the medial epicondyle.

CAUSE OF DAMAGE

As you use these muscles for activities such as swinging a golf club, the muscles contract and pull against the tendons. When these muscles and tendons are overused, the tendons can become inflamed.

SYMPTOMS

Common symptoms include tenderness and pain at the medial epicondyle that can be made worse by bending the wrist.

TREATMENT

Treatment will be determined by your physician and may include rest, application of ice, anti-inflammatory medication, cross-friction massage, strengthening exercises and, in rare cases, surgery.