Master Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) with Picmonic for Medicine

Lateral epicondylitis is often caused by repetitive forceful wrist extension and forearm prontonation/supination. One-handed backhand and improper stroke technique may predispose tennis players. It is important to note that many cases are without a formal cause (idiopathic).

Lateral epicondylitis is associated with repetitive wrist extension. Activities such as tennis and manual labor can cause this.

Lateral epicondylitis is associated with repetitive forearm supination. Activities such as tennis and manual labor can cause this.

Symptoms of lateral epicondylitis include pain that is elicited with resisted wrist extension and passive terminal wrist flexion with the elbow in full extension. About 75% of cases occur in the patient's dominant arm.

Lateral epicondylitis can be managed by conservative therapy including physical therapy, orthotics, rest, icing, compression, and elevation.

Surgery is a form of treatment for lateral epicondylitis and serves as a last resort after exhausting previous options and no improvement or worsening of symptoms after >6 months.

Injections of saline plus lidocaine or glucocorticoids can also serve as appropriate treatment for lateral epicondylitis.