What is lateral epicondylitis?
Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) What You Need to Know Tennis elbow can be caused by trauma to the elbow or more often by repeated stress on the elbow tendons such as from sports or use of certain tools. Symptoms of tennis elbow can include pain or weakness when grasping and aches or pain in the elbow area.
What is the treatment for lateral epicondylitis of the right elbow?
Patient with lateral epicondylitis of the right elbow undergoing an open technique. Debridement of the ECRB has been performed and the joint is visible through the capsular defect present in this case.
What happens if you overuse the lateral epicondyle?
When the ECRB is weakened from overuse, microscopic tears form in the tendon where it attaches to the lateral epicondyle. This leads to inflammation and pain. The ECRB may also be at increased risk for damage because of its position. As the elbow bends and straightens, the muscle rubs against bony bumps.
Is extracorporeal shock wave therapy effective for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis?
Data do not support the use of extracorporeal shock wave therapy for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.
Which imaging modality is used to diagnose lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow)?
MR imaging is the most widely used modality, although ultrasound may also be performed. Up to 25% of patients with lateral epicondylitis may have calcification within the soft tissue around the lateral epicondyle, representing calcific tendinopathy or enthesopathy.
Can exercise reduce pain in lateral epicondylitis?
Evidence suggests that exercise programs can reduce pain, but the improvement in grip strength is less clear.15,19,20Regimens should focus on eccentric instead of concentric phases. An accompanying patient handoutincludes exercises for lateral epicondylitis.