Combined Isotonic Exercise in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

Comparison of Eccentric and Combined Isotonic Exercises Combined With Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis

This study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of the combined isotonic exercise technique applied with extracorporeal shock waves in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Individuals aged 39-65 diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis were randomized using a sealed envelope method to one of the following groups: extracorporeal shock wave therapy, eccentric exercise and extracorporeal shock wave therapy, or combined isotonic exercise and extracorporeal shock wave therapy. Patients in the combined isotonic exercise and eccentric exercise groups were enrolled in a rehabilitation program under the supervision of a physiotherapist three days a week for five weeks. Extracorporeal shock wave therapy was also administered once a week for five weeks for all three groups. Pain intensity was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale, pressure pain threshold algometer, muscle strength using a hand-held dynamometer, grip strength using a digital hand-held dynamometer, and functionality using the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand Questionnaire (DASH).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis
• Having elbow pain lasting longer than 8 weeks
• Diagnosis of unilateral lateral epicondylitis
• Being a woman or man between the ages of 18 and 65
• No other lesions in or around the elbow

Exclusion Criteria:

• Cardiovascular, neurological, and neuromuscular diseases
• Prior trauma to the elbow area and previous elbow treatment
• Prior elbow surgery
• Peripheral nerve entrapment
• Corticosteroid injection within 6 months
• Bilateral elbow pain