A COMPREHENSIVE REHABILITATION PROGRAM FOR TREATING LATERAL ELBOW TENDINOPATHY

Abstract

Scapular muscle weakness in patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy is an identified impairment and is part of a multimodal rehabilitation approach. The published literature provides little information regarding specific rehabilitation guidelines that address both the proximal scapular muscle weakness and local elbow/wrist dysfunctions common in patients with lateral elbow tendinopathy. The purpose of this clinical commentary is to describe a comprehensive rehabilitation strategy for individuals with lateral elbow tendinopathy. This program emphasizes a phased therapeutic strategy that addresses proximal and local dysfunction along the kinetic chain. This clinical protocol is currently being tested for efficacy as part of a randomized controlled trial. The information in this commentary is intended to provide clinicians with sufficient detail to comprehensively guide the rehabilitation of a patient with lateral elbow tendinopathy.

Level of evidence: 5.

Keywords: lateral epicondylalgia; lateral epicondylitis; movement system; scapula; shoulder.

© 2019 by the Sports Physical Therapy Section.

Figures

Figure 1.

Example of Scapular Muscle Strengthening Progression. Refer to Appendix A for detailed exercise choices and performance instructions

Figure 2.

Example of Wrist Extensor Strengthening Progression. Refer to Appendix B for detailed exercise choices and performance instructions

Figure 3.

Mobilization with Movement for the Elbow. Refer to Appendix C for more detailed performance instructions

Figure 4.

Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy Counterforce Brace.