Scapular Strengthening Exercises in Patients With Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

Effectiveness of Scapular Strengthening on Pain, Grip Strength, and Function in Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder, affecting 1-3% of the population, typically in middle age and without gender bias. Evidence on the role of scapular strengthening in managing pain, grip strength, and functional limitations in these patients remains limited. This study investigated the impact of scapular muscle strengthening combined with conventional therapy versus conventional therapy alone on these outcomes in individuals with chronic lateral epicondylitis. Thirty participants were randomly assigned to either a control group or an experimental group. Pain was assessed using the visual analogue scale, grip strength with a handheld dynamometer, and functional limitation with the patient-rated tennis elbow (PRTE) scale. The independent variables were the two treatment approaches: conventional therapy alone and conventional therapy supplemented with scapular strengthening.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Chronic lateral epicondylitis,
• Positive Mill's test.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Fracture in the shoulder, wrist, or elbow region,
• Upper motor neurological disorder,
• Fibromyalgia,
• Cervical radiculopathy,
• Recent burn,
• Peripheral neuropathy,
• Any surgery on the upper quadrant within six months.