If a client presents with pain on the medial side of the elbow, what condition might this indicate?

When a client presents with pain on the medial side of the elbow, the condition known as golfer's elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a key consideration. This condition is characterized by the irritation and inflammation of the tendons that attach to the medial epicondyle of the humerus, commonly caused by repetitive wrist flexion and forearm rotation.

Golfer's elbow typically manifests as pain and tenderness on the inner part of the elbow, which directly corresponds to where the flexor tendons are located. Patients may also experience symptoms such as stiffness, a decreased range of motion, and pain when gripping or lifting objects.

In contrast, tennis elbow (often found on the lateral side) is associated with the lateral epicondyle and involves the extensor muscles, while student's elbow refers to olecranon bursitis, affecting the back of the elbow. Dislocations would generally present with more acute pain, swelling, and a visible deformity rather than localized tenderness on the medial side without trauma. Therefore, the symptoms aligned with golfer's elbow make it the most likely condition when dealing with medial elbow pain.