Golfers Elbow

Golfers Elbow (medial epicondylitis) is very similar to tennis elbow except the affected tendon attachment is the one on the inner side of the elbow rather than the outside part of the elbow. It is characterised by pain centred over the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow and is generally brought on by repetitive activities. Using the hand tends to aggravate the pain on the inner aspect of the elbow. The tendon attachment to the bone on the inner aspect of the elbow is from the muscle groups that cause bending of the wrist and fingers. For most patients their symptoms will settle with a combination of rest, ice and anti-inflammatory medication within three to six months. Physiotherapy exercises are very important to rehabilitate the tendon and some peoples glean benefit from using a removable clasp. 

Some patients fail to respond to these treatments are often referred to a specialist to consider further options such as injections. If the patient fails to respond to non-operative treatments including injections then as a last resort an operation called Golfers Elbow Release may be considered.  

Surgery for Golfers elbow is perfumed under General Anaesthetic s a daycase procedure and involves a small incision over the bony prominence on the inner aspect of the elbow. The tendon attachment to the bone is elevated and the tear or damage on the back of the tendon is removed. The back of the tendon is freshened up along with the bony prominence to allow fresh healing. Overall surgery helps about 2 in 3 patients. Patient usually return to driving after 2 weeks and take at least 6 weeks to return to manual work. 
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