Physical Therapy Assistant Practice Exam

Which condition is most likely to exhibit pain in the medial elbow region?

1. Lateral epicondylitis

2. Ulnar nerve entrapment

3. Medial collateral ligament sprain

4. Osteoarthritis of the elbow

The correct answer is: Ulnar nerve entrapment

The condition that is most likely to exhibit pain in the medial elbow region is ulnar nerve entrapment. This condition occurs when the ulnar nerve, which runs along the inside of the elbow, becomes compressed or irritated. Common symptoms include pain, numbness, or tingling sensations along the inner side of the forearm and hand, specifically affecting the fourth and fifth fingers. Patients may also experience weakness when gripping or making a fist. This entrapment often occurs at the cubital tunnel, a space formed by the ulnar collateral ligament and other structures near the medial elbow. As the ulnar nerve is positioned close to the bony structure of the elbow, it is susceptible to compression from trauma, repetitive use, or anatomical variances. In contrast, lateral epicondylitis typically causes pain on the outer side of the elbow due to tendon inflammation, while a medial collateral ligament sprain would usually present with localized pain and instability on the medial side, but it may not be characterized primarily by nerve-related symptoms. Osteoarthritis of the elbow can cause generalized pain and stiffness, but it is less specific to the medial region compared to ulnar nerve entrapment, which specifically targets that area due to neurological compression.