Current Physical Therapies Available for the Rehabilitation of Tennis Elbow: A Review Article

Abstract

This literature review article has drawn attention to the current available physical therapies which can be applied in managing Tennis Elbow or lateral epicondylitis (LET) whose prevalence is about 3% in general population and about 20% in elderly population. This condition is characterised by lesions in Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis muscle leading to painful and debilitating musculoskeletal condition and affecting the overall quality of life of a patient. The review has also discussed the updated pathophysiological findings in this condition. The study has discussed that tennis elbow is degenerative disorder and initially caused by inflammation. The typical pathology found is presence of disorderly arrangement of immature collagen fibers consisting of fibroblastic and vascular components. Finally, the review has discussed several methods of physical therapies to manage tennis elbow. This includes counterforce bracing, Soft tissue techniques, various modalities , various exercises including Wrist extensor eccentric exercise, stabilization exercise, Stretching exercises, Eccentric strengthening exercise and. Overall, the review brings updated guidelines of the exercises and physical rehabilitation therapy points for managing LET or Tennis Elbow. Keywords tennis elbow, musculoskeletal condition, elbow pain, physical therapy