PT Works

Community Care Physicians

Physical Therapy

Lateral Epicondylitis and Physical Therapy

September 2007

Offices are conveniently located in Clifton Park, Delmar, Latham, and Schodack.

  Lateral epicondylitis, otherwise known as tennis elbow, is an overuse injury characterized by inflammation or degeneration of the extensor carpi radialis brevis tendon as its insertion on the lateral epicondyle.  Early referral to physical therapy can help prevent a chronic inflammatory cycle.

 

  Physical therapy treatment often includes soft tissue mobilization and phonophoresis or iontophoresis to decrease initial inflammation, with a   gradual progression towards a gentle stretching and strengthening regimen.  Patients will be instructed in both proper ergonomics as well as a home exercise program.  Regular icing along with the use of an over the counter forearm strap may also help decrease discomfort.

Signs and symptoms of lateral epicondylitis include:

· Tenderness over the lateral epicondyle

· Tenderness in the forearm extensor muscle mass

· Pain with resisted wrist extension

· Pain with resisted finger extension

· Pain with passive wrist flexion

· Pain with lifting, opening doors and jars, and typing is also common.

Return to Physical Therapy