Learn about Medial Epicondylitis Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Medial Epicondylitis and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Medial Epicondylitis

Medial epicondylitis, often called 'golfer's elbow,' is a condition involving inflammation and microtears in the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle (the bony bump on the inside of the elbow). In pediatric orthopedics, this is typically an overuse injury seen in young athletes involved in repetitive throwing or gripping sports. Treatment focuses on conservative management, including rest, activity modification, physical therapy, and bracing. Surgical intervention is rare in children and adolescents, reserved only for severe, persistent cases that do not respond to extensive non-operative care. The goal is always to relieve pain, restore function, and allow a safe return to activity while protecting the child's growing bones and joints.

Key Highlights

    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.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0-1 days (typically outpatient)
  • checked 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.

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
PATIENT REVIEW

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.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated