Lateral Epicondylitis

Question 1

Describe the elbow joint

Answer 1

• Complex joint designed to withstand a wide range of dynamic forces.
• Hinged joint: possess the unique ability to rotate the distal arm in pronation and supination
• Lateral epicondyle is common extensor origin for supinators of forearm, including extensor carpi radialis brevis

Question 2

What is lateral epicondylitis?

Answer 2

Common overuse syndrome of extensor tendons of forearm.

Question 3

What are signs and symptoms of lateral epicondylitis?

Answer 3

• Pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow.
• When wrist or hand is straightened, worsened by lifting a heavy object, when making a fist, gripping an object, shaking hands or turning door handles.
• Shoulder and neck pain.

Question 4

What are the impact of lateral epicondylitis on occupational performance?

Answer 4

• Compromises several areas of occupation including ADLs, IADLs, sleep, education, work, play and social participation.
• Joint mobility affects individuals ability to participate in daily activities that require UL use (i.e. putting on shirt, meal preparation, cleaning)
• Limited muscle strength and endurance
• Pain, balance, sensation loss: indicates need for adaptive equipment.

Question 5

What is the role of occupational therapists in treating lateral epicondylitis?

Answer 5

• Goal-directed: relevant their physical, emotional, cognitive and perceptual functions
• Hand therapy most relevant: increase independence by upper-extremity conditions to optimise use of hand and arm.
• Provide splints and adaptive equipment that facilitate rather than inhibit early participation in daily activities