Lateral Epicondylalgia or Epicondylitis, often referred to as “tennis elbow,” is a common injury impacting people from many walks of life.   While it can afflict tennis players, it also impacts other people who participate in leisure or work activities that require repetitive arm, elbow, and wrist movement. Examples include golfers, bowlers, gardeners, house cleaners, carpenters, and mechanics.

Research suggests that the term “epicondylalgia” (the suffix algia means painand itis means inflammation) might be more appropriate in describing the condition.  There is evidence of an absence of an inflammatory component in tennis elbow. Epicondylalgia encompasses all the possible causes of the pain without assuming one underlying cause.   An experienced physical therapist must consider all possibilities in developing an appropriate management program for you.  Treating tennis elbow as lateral epicondylalgia helps the physical therapist include treatment options that may better serve the reduction of pain and discomfort and your return to full mobility.

Symptoms

Lateral Epicondylalgia is felt on the outside of the elbow.  The pain is usually gradual with tenderness felt on or below the joint's bony prominence. Typically you may notice:

• Pain caused by lifting or bending the arm or grasping even light objects such as a coffee cup.

• Difficulty extending the forearm fully without pain.
• Pain that lasts for 6 to 12 weeks; the discomfort continuing for as little as 3 weeks or as long as several years.

Overuse of the forearm muscles using repetitive twisting motions is one of the most common causes.  Some risk factors that may lead to this condition include activities involving repetitive movement of the forearm, wrist, and fingers; improper technique while doing certain movements; and improper equipment for an activity or sport.

Treatment and Management

Recent research in the care and treatment of lateral epicondylalgia has demonstrated the effectiveness of physical therapy.  In fact, it was shown to be superior to many of the traditional approaches commonly used when it is treated as an inflammatory condition (epicondylitis).   Physical therapy was shown to surpass other treatment options including the use of injections and NSAIDS (Non Steroidal Anti- Inflammatory Drugs). Possible treatment options include ergonomic evaluation, activity and equipment modifications, skilled therapeutic exercises, deep friction massage, bracing and taping, and patient education.