College of Massage Therapists of British Columbia (CMTBC) Practice Exam

If a patient presents with Golfer's elbow, where would the therapist focus treatment?

1. Wrist extensors

2. Lateral Epicondyle

3. Medial Epicondyle

4. Shoulder joint

The correct answer is: Medial Epicondyle

In the case of Golfer's elbow, clinically known as medial epicondylitis, the treatment focus should be on the medial epicondyle. This condition involves pain and inflammation of the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus, which is associated with the flexor muscles of the forearm. As such, the therapy would aim to relieve tension, reduce pain, and improve flexibility and strength in this area. Focusing on the medial epicondyle allows the therapist to address the underlying tissue dysfunction that contributes to the patient's symptoms. This may include techniques such as soft tissue manipulation, stretching of the flexor muscles, and addressing any associated myofascial restrictions. By effectively treating the medial epicondyle and its surrounding soft tissues, the patient is more likely to experience relief from their symptoms and facilitate better healing. The other anatomical locations, such as the wrist extensors, lateral epicondyle, and shoulder joint, are less relevant in the context of Golfer's elbow, as they do not directly relate to the primary site of injury or inflammation associated with this condition.