The Importance of Correct Palpation Technique in Golfer’s Elbow
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain and tenderness on the inner side of the elbow, typically caused by overuse of the wrist flexor muscles. Accurate palpation of the medial epicondyle and surrounding soft tissue structures is essential for correct diagnosis.
A precise palpation technique allows clinicians to localize the pain, distinguish different types of golfer’s elbow from other causes of medial elbow discomfort (such as ulnar nerve entrapment or ligament injuries). Improper palpation may lead to misdiagnosis, delayed recovery, or ineffective interventions (e.g. deep friction massage on the wrong localization).
Effective palpation should be done with the elbow extened and forearm supinated, enabling better access to the common flexor tendon origin. We make a distinction between the origin and the musculotendinous junction.
