Medial epicondylopathy—microtrauma and pathologic overuse as a cause of degeneration of the flexor tendons

Abstract

Abstract Background Medial epicondylitis is a common orthopedic condition that typically results from overuse or previous microtrauma of the flexor-pronator mass. Repetitive eccentric loading of the muscles leads to subsequent degeneration of the flexor tendons. Diagnosis Patients present with a painful elbow. In the case of concomitant elbow pathologies, including ulnar neuritis and ulnar collateral ligament injury, there should be a detailed examination. Generally, the diagnosis is based on the clinical examination. T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging can be useful for chronic courses, over 6 months. Treatment Nonsurgical management is the mainstay of treatment. Hence, surgical treatment may be indicated for patients with persistent symptoms after conservative treatment. In the case of a surgical treatment, arthroscopy can be useful to capture concomitant elbow pathologies.