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).

• 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)

• 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

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

PRP (platelet-rich plasma) | Corticosteroids = short-term relief;
PRP = possible long-term benefit (mixed evidence) |

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

• Medial epicondylitis
• Extensor carpi radialis brevis
• Cozen's test