When you perform gripping motions during weightlifting, you can place considerable strain on the forearm flexors, the muscles in your lower arms. Over time, this strain can lead to damage in the tendon that attaches your forearm flexors to your elbow. In turn, this damage can trigger the onset of medial epicondylitis, a painful condition sometimes called "golfer's elbow."
Basics
Although medial epicondylitis gets its nickname from elbow damage that occurs in golfers, the condition actually occurs more frequently in non-golfers. In addition to weightlifting and bodybuilding, the condition is associated with a wide variety of common activities, including working at a computer, sewing, painting, hammering, playing tennis and repeatedly using a screwdriver. In some cases, the condition develops gradually over time. However, weightlifters can also develop epicondylitis suddenly as a result of stress generated by making gripping motions while lifting weight amounts that strain their muscle capacity.
Degrees of Damage
If you develop medial epicondylitis gradually, the first symptom of your condition will typically be pain that appears roughly 1 to 2 centimeters below the inner bony portion of your elbow. In some cases, this pain can also extend down into your forearm. If you have a minor case of epicondylitis, this may be the full extent of its impact. However, if you have a more significant case of the disorder, your pain may be severe enough to make elbow movements difficult or disrupt your normal sleeping pattern. Some individuals with medial epicondylitis also develop upper back, shoulder or neck pain limited to the same side of the body.
Treatment
If you don't get treatment for medial epicondylitis, it can become a chronic, ongoing condition. In the initial phase of treatment, your doctor will likely ask you to follow the RICE protocol, which requires you to rest your elbow, apply ice or another cold source, compress your elbow with some type of bandage and keep it elevated above the level of your heart. In the second phase of treatment, your doctor or physical therapist will ask you to perform exercises to stretch and strengthen the muscles in your forearm and wrist. Specific exercises typically vary according to your particular circumstances.
Considerations
During recuperation, you will likely need to avoid any weightlifting activities that require you to make gripping motions or carry any weight with your forearms. You will also need to avoid any other activities that generate significant forearm stress. After you recover from medial epicondylitis, you will probably be able to return to your former routine. However, you will need to follow a few guidelines to avoid further injury, including improving your weightlifting technique and equipment, warming up properly before exercising and increasing the strength of your related muscles.
