The Role of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation in the Management of Lateral Epicondylitis

Summary:

Lateral epicondylitis (LE), also known as tennis elbow, is a common pathology affecting between 1% and 3% of the general population, mainly due to involvement of the lateral epicondyle. The condition results from repeated traction on the tendon insertion of the short extensor carpi radialis muscle, often during sporting, domestic or professional activities. It begins with an initial collagen lesion, characterized by tendon microcracks, and can last from six months to two years. Treatment is based on cessation of the activity responsible, cold therapy, functional re-education and physiotherapy, while the efficacy of corticosteroid infiltration remains debated. New therapeutic approaches, such as platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and botulinum toxin injections, have emerged, but their place in treatment remains debatable. Surgery is considered when medical and physical treatments fail.