Treating the Forearm Flexors

This covers a range of syndromes related to pain on the inside part of
the elbow (medial epicondyle). The most common syndromes are “pitcher’s/ thrower’s elbow” and climber’s elbow.

These issues usually develop as a result of overuse of the “flexor” muscles used for hand gripping or throwing (check Supinator, Flexor Carpi Ulnaris, Flexor Digitorum Super Cialis and Profundus, Palmaris Longus, and the Medial Head of Triceps muscles).

Trigger Points

The repetitive actions of throwing and climbing can place considerable amounts of mechanical stress on the inside of the elbow joint. 

This stress can create micro-traumata that over time can develop into tendon tears and failure.

In most cases, the pain develops slowly and gradually over weeks or months; it is less common for the symptoms to occur suddenly.

Initially, stiffness is felt. This is probably due to the muscular overload and development of trigger points. Pain and tenderness is then felt over the medial aspect of the elbow joint.

Clients typically report pins and needles or numbness in the fourth or fifth fingers. Wrist weakness may also develop.

Pain is reported to be especially bad at night, just before sleep, especially in clients who twist their hands into funny positions beneath their pillows.

Pain also increases when using tools, shaking hands, turning a doorknob, gripping, lifting, or trying to stabilize or move the wrist. 

Links to Courses

Trigger Point Theory Master Course Collection

The Anatomy of Sports Injuries NAT Master Course

Treating Frozen Shoulder NAT Foundation Course

About the author

Stuart Hinds is one of Australia’s leading soft tissue therapists, with over 27 years of experience as a practitioner, working with elite sports athletes, supporting Olympic teams, educating and mentoring others as well as running a highly successful clinic in Geelong.

Stuart has a strong following of practitioners across Australia and globally who tap into his expertise as a soft-tissue specialist. He delivers a range of highly sought after seminars across Australia, supported by online videos, webinars and one-on-one mentoring to help support his colleagues to build successful businesses.

In 2016, Stuart was awarded a lifetime membership to Massage & Myotherapy Australia for his significant support and contribution to the industry.

This trigger point therapy blog is intended to be used for information purposes only and is not intended to be used for medical diagnosis or treatment or to substitute for a medical diagnosis and/or treatment rendered or prescribed by a physician or competent healthcare professional. This information is designed as educational material, but should not be taken as a recommendation for treatment of any particular person or patient. Always consult your physician if you think you need treatment or if you feel unwell.