By Randy R. Clark, MD and Aaron O’Brien, MD
Golfer’s elbow (inner elbow pain) is a commonly encountered orthopedic problem. It may affect as many as 8% of patients. Tennis elbow (outer elbow pain) affects up to 3% of adults each year. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. It is estimated that 1 person in 10 may experience this heel pain at some time. Nearly two million patients receive treatment for plantar fasciitis each year in the United States, comprising 1% of all visits to orthopedic surgeons.
Repetitive stress on the tendon-bone interface results in microtrauma and degeneration. Symptoms include pain accompanied with swelling and decreased range of motion. Treatments include icing, anti-inflammatories, compressive wraps, physical therapy, night splints, and extension braces. Corticosteroid injections are often required if more conservative methods fail to relieve symptoms.