Name of the Condition

• Medial epicondylitis, unspecified elbow
• Commonly known as "Golfer's Elbow"

Summary

Medial epicondylitis, also known as golfer's elbow, is a painful condition affecting the tendons on the inside of the elbow. It results from repetitive stress or overuse, leading to inflammation and discomfort.

Causes

The primary cause of medial epicondylitis is repetitive motion that involves the wrist and fingers, often seen in activities such as golfing, racket sports, or manual labor. Other causes can include inadequate warm-up or poor technique in physical activities.

Risk Factors

• Participation in repetitive motion activities, such as gardening or typing
• Age (more common in adults aged 40 and up)
• Previous elbow injuries
• Poor physical conditioning or lack of flexibility

Symptoms

• Pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow
• Stiffness or weakness in the affected arm
• Tingling or numbness radiating to the fingers
• Difficulty with gripping or holding objects

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is typically made through a physical examination and patient history. The doctor may also use imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to rule out other injuries or conditions.

Treatment Options

• Rest and avoidance of aggravating activities
• Ice application to reduce swelling
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for pain relief
• Physical therapy focusing on stretching and strengthening exercises
• Bracing or using a forearm strap to alleviate tendon strain
• Injections or, in severe cases, surgical intervention

Prognosis and Follow-Up

With proper treatment and management, most individuals recover fully from medial epicondylitis within a few weeks to months. Regular follow-up with physical therapy is crucial to prevent recurrence.

Complications

If left untreated, the condition can lead to chronic pain and further tendon damage, severely affecting the range of motion and arm function.

Lifestyle & Prevention

• Warm up and stretch properly before engaging in physical activities
• Strengthen forearm muscles through targeted exercises
• Use proper equipment and technique when participating in sports or manual labor
• Take regular breaks to minimize repetitive strain

When to Seek Professional Help

Seek medical attention if you experience persistent elbow pain, especially if the pain worsens despite self-care measures, or if you have difficulty with daily activities.

Additional Resources

• American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons: orthoinfo.org
• National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases: niams.nih.gov

Tips for Medical Coders

• Ensure the correct identification of the elbow involved (left, right, unspecified).
• Avoid confusing medial epicondylitis with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow).
• Cross-reference patient's activity history and physical exam findings for accurate coding.