Lateral epicondylitis

Background

• Overuse syndrome affecting the forearm, wrist, and digit extensors/supinators

Clinical Features

• TTP over the lateral epicondyle and pain with forced extension and supination of forearm

Differential Diagnosis

Elbow Diagnoses

Radiograph-Positive

• Distal humerus fracture
• Radial head fracture
  • Essex-Lopresti fracture
• Capitellum fracture
• Olecranon fracture
• Elbow dislocation

Radiograph-Negative

• Biceps tendon rupture/dislocation
• Lateral epicondylitis
• Medial epicondylitis
• Olecranon bursitis (nonseptic)
• Pronator teres syndrome
• Septic bursitis

Pediatric

• Nursemaid's elbow
• Supracondylar fracture
• Lateral epicondyle fracture
• Medial epicondyle fracture
• Olecranon fracture
• Radial head fracture
• Salter-Harris fractures

Evaluation

• Consider elbow xray (to rule out fracture)

Management

• Conservative
  • Rest
  • Ice
  • NSAIDs
  • Immobilization (often via counterforce brace)

Disposition

• Outpatient

See Also

• Elbow diagnoses