About Medial Epicondylitis
Key Highlights
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Primarily managed non-surgically in pediatric patients, minimizing invasive procedures.Focuses on preserving the growth plates and long-term joint health in children.Specialized pediatric orthopedic approach tailored to a child's anatomy and activity levels.Multimodal treatment plans combining rest, therapy, and gradual return to play.Aims for complete functional recovery to support athletic and daily activities.
Who is this surgery for?
- Persistent pain on the inner side of the elbow lasting more than 6-12 months despite comprehensive conservative treatment.
- Significant weakness in grip strength or wrist flexion that hinders daily activities or sports.
- Presence of a tendon tear (confirmed by imaging like MRI) that is unlikely to heal with rest alone.
- Symptoms that severely limit a young athlete's participation and do not respond to guided physical therapy and activity modification.
- Rare cases of associated ulnar nerve irritation or compression at the elbow.
How to prepare
- Complete a thorough physical examination and imaging (X-ray, possibly MRI) to confirm diagnosis and rule out other causes.
- Undergo an extensive trial of non-surgical care, including physical therapy, rest, and possibly corticosteroid injections.
- Discuss the child's medical history, allergies, and current medications with the surgical team.
- Follow pre-operative fasting instructions as provided by the hospital (typically no food or drink for 6-8 hours before surgery).
- Arrange for post-operative support and transportation, as the child will need assistance.
Risks & possible complications
- General surgical risks: infection, bleeding, or adverse reaction to anesthesia.
- Nerve injury, particularly to the ulnar nerve located near the surgical site.
- Persistent pain, stiffness, or weakness in the elbow or forearm.
- Incomplete relief of symptoms or recurrence of the condition.
- Scar tissue formation or complex regional pain syndrome (rare).
- Risks associated with the growth plate in very young patients (though surgery is typically avoided in this area).
Recovery & hospital stay
- Immediate post-op: The elbow is placed in a splint or brace for initial protection and comfort.
- Early phase (1-2 weeks): Focus on wound care, pain management, and gentle finger/wrist movements to prevent stiffness.
- Rehabilitation (2-6 weeks): Gradual transition to a removable brace. Begin guided physical therapy to restore range of motion and very light strengthening.
- Strengthening phase (6-12 weeks): Progressive exercises to rebuild strength in the forearm and grip under therapist supervision.
- Return to activity (3-6 months): Gradual, phased reintroduction to sports-specific activities, starting with low-impact drills. Full return to competitive throwing sports may take 6 months or longer.
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Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient)
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Expected recovery time: 3-6 months for full return to sports
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering medial epicondylitis in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform medial epicondylitis. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for medial epicondylitis compare across other countries where we have data.
| Country | Estimated cost range | Typical stay | Recovery time | View details |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India | INR 80 Thousand – 200 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 3-6 months for full return to sports | Know More |
| Turkey | TRY 280 Thousand – 700 Thousand | 0-1 days (typically outpatient) | ~ 3-6 months for full return to sports | Know More |
Arjun Shah, a 13-year-old aspiring cricket...
Arjun Shah, a 13-year-old aspiring cricket fast bowler, had been training intensely for district-level selection. Over the past three months, he developed a persistent, aching pain on the inner side of his right elbow that worsened with every bowling session. Initially dismissed as growing pains, it progressed to the point where he couldn't grip his bat comfortably, and even turning a doorknob became painful. His parents noticed he was withdrawing from friends and skipping practice. The pediatric orthopedic surgeon diagnosed Medial Epicondylitis, or 'Little Leaguer's Elbow,' caused by repetitive throwing stress. After 6 weeks of failed conservative treatment (rest, ice, physiotherapy), the doctor recommended a percutaneous tenotomy, a minor procedure to release the strained tendon. The ultrasound-guided procedure was quick, done under local anesthesia. Arjun was scared but comforted by the doctor's explanation. The recovery required 4 weeks in a splint, followed by a structured 3-month physiotherapy program to rebuild strength. Emotionally, Arjun felt frustrated and feared his cricket dreams were over. Post-recovery, with his pain gone and strength restored, he felt a huge wave of relief and optimism. He returned to modified training with a new focus on proper technique and conditioning, feeling more resilient and educated about his body.
Pediatric Orthopedics for Medial Epicondylitis
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform medial epicondylitis and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 14 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad
- 23 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore
- 8 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata