lateral epicondylitis Flashcards
what epicondylitis?
chronic symptomatic inflammation of the forearm tendons at the elbow
caused by microtears in tendond following repetitive injury
what are the two common forms of epicondylitis?
lateral epicondylitis = tennis elbow
medial epicondylitis = golfers elbow
what is the pathophysiology of epicondylitis?
Repetitive overuse of the tendons can cause microtears in the tendon at their origin; the tendon adapts to the multiple tears, leading to the formation of granulation tissue, fibrosis and eventually tendinosis.
where do the externsor muscles of the forarm attach?
lateral epicondyle is the extensor origin of the forearm
what are the risk factors for epicondylitis?
those in occupations and hobbies associated with excessive use of extensive forearm muscles
including tennis
what are the clinical features of epicondylitis?
- pain radiating down forearm, worsening over weeks to months
- local tenderness on palpation over/distal to lateral epicondyle and common extensor tendon
what are your differentials?
- radial carpal tunnel
- elbow OA
- cervical radiculopathy
what investigations are done?
usually diagnosed clinically
can do MRI/USS to confir dianosis or detect any suspected structural abnormality
how is epicondylitis managed conservatively?
- modify activities to reduce repetitive actions causing condition
- simple analgesics
- corticosteriod injects if symptoms persist
- physiotherapy
how is epicondylitis managed surgically?
- refer to ortho surgeon in symptoms not controlled through conservative measures
what are the complications of lateral epicondylitis?
self limiting and spontaneously improves in most people in 1-2yrs.
where is the common flexor origin of the forearm?
medial epicondyle
what are the most commonly affected tendons in medial epicondylitis?
pronator teres and flexor carpi radialis
patients will have tenderness over these areas
