Orthopaedics – Surgeries – Treatment
Elbow Condition Treatment
Management of Medial/Lateral Epicondylitis:
Diagnosis and Treatment:
Epicondylitis of the elbow is inflammation caused by strains in the tendons attached to the medial or lateral epicondyle, the area where the tendons that move the arm connect to the bone. It causes pain on the inner or outer side of the elbow, which may radiate to the forearm muscles, especially during movement or strength training.
The condition often occurs after monotonous or repetitive movements (e.g., computer use, manual work or sports such as tennis and golf). Patients may experience pain with simple movements, such as opening a bottle or wringing a cloth. Often, other pathologies, such as external posterior instability or joint crease, mimic epicondylitis and require careful diagnosis.
Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, special tests, MRI and, in difficult cases, diagnostic arthroscopy. Treatment in the initial phases is conservative, including anti-inflammatory drugs, physiotherapy and limitation of strenuous activities. Cortisone injections offer temporary relief but are not recommended for long-term use. Alternatively, hyaluronic acid or biological agents (PRP) injections are used.
Surgical management
If the pain persists for more than 12 months, surgical treatment is necessary. Dr. Sahinis applies arthroscopic cleaning or a small incision to remove damaged tissue and reposition the tendons in the bone. After surgery, the elbow is rested for 6 weeks while rehabilitation begins gradually, with the goal of full restoration of function.
