Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation for Lateral Epicondylitis
- Author: Consuelo T Lorenzo, MD; Chief Editor: Rene Cailliet, MD more...
Background
Lateral epicondylitis, or tennis elbow, is the most common overuse injury of the elbow and is observed up to 10 times more frequently than medial epicondylitis. Lateral epicondylitis is usually precipitated by repetitive contraction of the wrist extensors and is characterized by aching pain that is worsened with activity. Early conservative management is the key to symptom resolution, which eventually allows return to vocational and avocational activities without restriction.[1, 2, 3]
Related eMedicine topics:
Elbow and Forearm Overuse Injuries
Lateral Epicondylitis [Orthopedic Surgery]
Lateral Epicondylitis [Sports Medicine]
Pathophysiology
Lateral epicondylitis is a result of inflammation, or enthesitis, at the muscular origin of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB). This inflammation leads to microtears of the tendon, with subsequent fibrosis and, ultimately, tissue failure. Less commonly, the attachments of the extensor carpi radialis longus (ECRL), extensor digitorum communis (EDC), or extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) are involved.[4, 5, 6]
Epidemiology
Sex
The condition affects men and women with equal frequency.
Age
Lateral epicondylitis most often occurs between the third and fifth decades of life.
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