Overview of epicondylar tendinopathy

Figure 1. Key practice points for epicondylar tendinopathy.

[NB1]

  • Epicondylar tendinopathy is associated with epicondylar pain and tenderness that affects the common extensor tendon origin (lateral), or common flexor tendon origin (medial), of the elbow(s).
  • It is usually self-limiting but can last up to 1 to 2 years (or longer) and may be recurrent.
  • Diagnosis is clinical and investigations are not recommended.
  • Treatment should prioritise oral analgesia, avoidance of aggravating activities, and support for the person’s mental health.
  • Local corticosteroid injection may be recommended for symptomatic improvement but does not alter the natural history.
Note: NB1: This list is a summary guide only; refer to full text.

Lateral epicondylar tendinopathy (also known as tennis elbow, lateral epicondylitis or enthesopathy) is a common condition, particularly in people between 40 and 50 years of age. It is thought to be an overload injury of the common extensor tendons at their origin at the lateral epicondyleCoombes, 2015. Despite the title ‘tennis elbow’, tennis is only a direct cause in 5% of cases.

Medial epicondylar tendinopathy (also known as golfer’s elbow, thrower’s elbow, medial epicondylitis or enthesopathy) is a similar, but much less common condition, involving the common flexor tendons at their origin at the medial epicondyleReece, 2022.

Key practice points for epicondylar tendinopathy lists some key practice points for epicondylar tendinopathy.