MSK: Tennis Elbow: Free MSRA Podcast

🎧Deep Dive: TennisElbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)Welcome to anotherhigh-yield episode of The Deep Dive,where we tackle one of the most common MSKpresentations in general practice — lateralepicondylitis, aka tennis elbow.Whether you're prepping for the MSRA,facing it in clinic, or just need a crystal-clear recap, we’re breaking it alldown into an easy-to-remember format. 🎾What is LateralEpicondylitis?A degenerative overuse injury affecting the extensor tendons of the forearm, especially ECRBCauses pain and tenderness at the lateral epicondyle, worsened by wrist extension or grippingDespite the name, not exclusive to tennis players — it’s about repetition and poor mechanics 🛠️Who’s at Risk?Affects 1–3% of the population, most often aged 35–54Seen in manual workers (plumbers, painters), athletes (racket sports), and computer usersPeak incidence: dominant arm, unilateral, and worsens with repetitive wrist extension or supination 🧠PathophysiologyNot truly inflammatory — it’s a tendinopathyChronic microtrauma → disrupted collagen architecture, abnormal healingMain tendon: extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB)Think: degeneration > inflammation 🩺Clinical FeaturesLocalised lateral elbow pain and tendernessWorse with:Wrist extension against resistanceResisted supinationEveryday tasks like turning keys, lifting kettles, or opening jarsNormal elbow joint movement, but weakened grip strength 📋Diagnosis & TestsClinical diagnosis in most casesProvocative tests:Cozen’s Test (resisted wrist extension)Mill’s Test (passive wrist flexion + pronation)Imaging only if:Symptoms persistOther diagnoses suspectedMRI or ultrasound: may show tendon thickening or microtearsX-ray: to rule out arthritis or bony issuesNerve conduction studies: only if suspecting radial tunnel syndrome 🔍Differentials toConsiderRadial tunnel syndromeCervical radiculopathyGolfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis)Rotator cuff pathologyElbow arthritisCarpal tunnel syndrome (rarely radiates) 💡Management Approach✅ First-line:Rest + activity modificationNSAIDs (oral or topical)Ice or heat therapy (depending on stage)Physiotherapy: focus on eccentric loading exercisesCounterforce bracing or wrist splints to offload strain💉 If persistent:Corticosteroid injections (short-term relief, but limited long-term benefit)Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT)Surgery: rare; for refractory cases after 6–12 months🧠 Mnemonic for Management: RICE + NSAIDs + PHYSIO(RICE = Rest, Ice,Compression/brace, [Elevation less relevant]) 📈Prognosis80–90% recover with conservative measures over 6–12 monthsFull recovery can take time — tendon healing is slowComplications (rare):Chronic painGrip weaknessReduced functionRarely: depression from prolonged disability 📚MSRA RevisionResources📝 Revision Notes:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/lateral-epicondylitis-tennis-elbow-revision-notes/🃏 Flashcards:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/lateral-epicondylitis-tennis-elbow-flashcards/📚 Accordion Q&A:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/lateral-epicondylitis-tennis-elbow-accordion-qa-notes/🎯 Rapid Quiz:https://www.passthemsra.com/topic/lateral-epicondylitis-tennis-elbow-rapid-quiz/🧠Final ThoughtDon’t dismisspersistent elbow pain — early intervention, proper physio, and tailored advicemake all the difference. Remember, tennis elbowisn’t always from tennis, but it always deserves attention. 🔗More MSRA Resourceshttps://www.passthemsra.comhttps://www.freemsra.com#MSRA #TennisElbow#LateralEpicondylitis #MSRARevision #MSRAQuiz #PassTheMSRA #FreeMSRA #MSRAMSK#Tendinopathy #CozenTest #PhysioFirst