A prospective pilot study of a multidisciplinary home training programme for lateral epicondylitis.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate a new multidisciplinary structured home training programme for patients with lateral epicondylitis compared to conventional attendance.


METHODS
This study utilized a prospective non-randomized design to compare the effect of a home exercise programme against a pragmatic approach to managing patients with lateral epicondylitis in a primary care setting in Sweden.


METHODS
A total of 78 patients, presenting to their general practitioner with lateral epicondylitis were recruited from two separate geographical areas. The patients were divided into two group, 51 entered the intervention group and 27 entered the control group.


METHODS
The intervention group was treated with a specific home training programme, ergonomic advice and when necessary wrist and/or night bandages. The control group was treated with conventional treatment, e.g. corticosteroid injections, stretching or no intervention. Pain and function were evaluated by the PRFEQ. An electronic hand-power gauge measured strength and stamina. Sick-leave absence was collected via the regional Social Insurance Office.


RESULTS
After four weeks the intervention group experienced less sick-leave, less pain, better function and returned to work earlier than the control group. After 16 weeks the intervention group still had significantly better function than the control group and were taking less sick-leave. Pain decreased more in the intervention group but this was not significant. There was no difference in grip strength between the two groups.


CONCLUSIONS
A structured home training programme can improve function and reduce sick leave in patients with lateral epicondylitis.
Nilsson
Pia
P
Tvååker Primary Health Care Centre, Varberg, Sweden. pia.nilsson@lthalland.se
Thom
Eivor
E
Baigi
Amir
A
Marklund
Bertil
B
Månsson
Jörgen
J
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D003191:Comprehensive Health Care; D005081:Exercise Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D018737:Hand Strength; D006699:Home Care Services; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010865:Pilot Projects; D011446:Prospective Studies; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000534:rehabilitation*; D016896:Treatment Outcome