Golfer’s Elbow Test

The golfer’s elbow test, also known as the medial epicondylitis test, is a simple clinical examination used to diagnose golfer’s elbow or medial epicondylitis. Here’s how to perform the test:

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  1. Positioning: The patient should be comfortably seated with their arm extended and the palm facing downward (pronated position).
  2. Locating the Medial Epicondyle: Locate the medial epicondyle, which is the bony prominence on the inner side of the elbow. This is the point where the tendons affected in golfer’s elbow attach.
  3. Stabilization: Use one hand to stabilize the patient’s arm just above the wrist. This helps prevent any unnecessary movement during the test.
  4. Resistance: With the other hand, apply resistance to the patient’s wrist or fingers in a direction that would oppose wrist flexion or finger flexion. You can do this by asking the patient to flex their wrist or fingers against your resistance.
  5. Observation for Pain: While maintaining the resistance, observe the patient’s reaction. Specifically, watch for any signs of pain or discomfort around the medial epicondyle or along the inner side of the elbow.
  6. Interpretation: A positive test result is indicated if the patient experiences pain or tenderness in the region of the medial epicondyle during the resisted wrist or finger flexion. The reproduction of pain in this area suggests irritation or inflammation of the tendons attached to the medial epicondyle, characteristic of golfer’s elbow.

It’s essential to perform this test carefully and gently to avoid causing excessive discomfort to the patient. Additionally, it’s crucial to consider other possible causes of elbow pain and to perform a comprehensive examination to arrive at an accurate diagnosis. If there’s uncertainty or if the patient’s symptoms persist, further evaluation by a healthcare professional, such as a physician or physical therapist, may be necessary.

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