Goodbye golfers elbow

Not all cases of golfer’s elbow occur in golfers. However, in this case, the patient presented with a severe case of medial epicondylitis, commonly known as golfer’s elbow. Medial epicondylitis is a condition that affects the tendons at the site of origin on the medial epicondyle, or the inner aspect of the elbow. It is typically aggravated by gripping and active wrist flexion.

This patient was referred to occupational therapy for a custom wrist orthosis designed to immobilize the wrist, reduce activation of the forearm’s flexor muscles, and decrease stress on the tendon to promote healing and recovery. Eager to return to golf, he was compliant with both the splint and therapy.

Therapy included transverse friction massage over the medial epicondyle, wrist and forearm stretching, various modalities, and gentle strengthening exercises. While the patient continued to experience point tenderness over the medial epicondyle, his dedication to therapy paid off. After working diligently, he responded well and was back on the golf course just in time for the spring season. Look at that form!