====== Lateral epicondylitis ======

Lateral epicondylitis is an overuse syndrome affecting the common extensor tendon at the lateral epicondyle of the humerus, most commonly the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB).

===== Etiology =====
  * Repetitive wrist extension and forearm supination
  * Microtrauma to the ECRB origin
  * Common in:
    * Tennis players
    * Manual laborers (e.g., carpenters, mechanics)
    * Office workers (e.g., typing, mouse use)

===== Clinical Presentation =====
  * Pain and tenderness over lateral epicondyle
  * Pain exacerbated by:
    * Gripping
    * Lifting with pronated forearm
    * Wrist extension against resistance
  * Positive special tests:
    * Cozen’s test
    * Maudsley’s test

===== Diagnosis =====
  * Clinical diagnosis
  * Imaging (if needed to rule out other causes):
    * Ultrasound: hypoechoic areas in tendon
    * MRI: tendinosis, partial tearing

===== Treatment Options =====

^ Treatment Type ^ Examples ^ Notes ^
| Conservative | Rest, ice, NSAIDs, physical therapy | First-line; effective in most cases |
| Bracing | Counterforce brace or wrist splint | Reduces stress on tendon |
| Injections | Corticosteroids \\
PRP (platelet-rich plasma) | Corticosteroids = short-term relief; \\
PRP = possible long-term benefit (mixed evidence) |
| Surgery | Tendon debridement and ECRB release | For refractory cases >6–12 months |

===== Prognosis =====
  * Most patients improve with conservative management
  * Symptoms can persist for several months
  * Recurrence if overuse continues

===== See also =====
  * [[Medial epicondylitis]]
  * [[Extensor carpi radialis brevis]]
  * [[Cozen's test]]