Lateral Epicondylitis Treatment High Intensive Laser Therapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy

Comparison of High Intensive Laser Therapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomized Controlled Study

Objectives: This study aims to evaluate and compare the short-term efficacy of high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) and extra corporeal shock wave therapy(ESWT) on pain, sensitivity, handgrip strength, and functions in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis (LE).

Material and methods: Forty five participants (age range, 18 to 65 years) with unilateral elbow pain were randomized into two groups. HILT group (n = 22) and the ESWT group (n = 23). The HILT and ESWT were administered three times a week for three weeks, and each treatment was combined with exercises. All patients in both groups were evaluated with ultrasonography for common extensor tendon(CET) thickness. A visual analog scale (VAS), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QDASH), and hand grip strength test were used to evaluate the patients before, one, and six weeks after treatment.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Clinical diagnosis of Lateral epicondylitis
• Age >18

Exclusion Criteria:

• Operation history about elbow
• Received physical therapy, or had a steroid injection to the elbow in the three months
• Cervical radiculopathy,
• Elbow deformities,
• Fibromyalgia syndrome,
• Carpal tunnel syndrome,
• Neurological impairments in the upper extremity,
• Chronic inflammatory conditions,
• Hemophilia,
• Pregnant,
• History of malignancy