Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with insidious onset of medial-sided left elbow pain, exacerbated by repetitive wrist flexion and forearm pronation. Reports localized tenderness, weakness in grip strength, and occasional radiation of pain into the proximal forearm. Denies history of acute trauma, numbness, or tingling in the ulnar nerve distribution.
Clinical Examination Findings
Inspection of the left elbow reveals no erythema, edema, or deformity. Palpation demonstrates focal tenderness directly over the medial epicondyle. Pain is reproduced with resisted wrist flexion and forearm pronation. Passive wrist extension elicits discomfort at the medial epicondyle. Neurovascular status is intact; distal pulses are palpable, and sensation is preserved in the ulnar, median, and radial nerve distributions.
Treatment Protocol
Conservative management initiated: activity modification to avoid aggravating activities, ice application (15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as directed. Prescription provided for physical therapy focusing on eccentric strengthening of the wrist flexors and forearm stretching. Use of a medial counterforce brace recommended during strenuous activities.