A new integrative model of lateral epicondylalgia.
Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylalgia is a diagnosis familiar to many within the general community and presents with an uncomplicated clinical picture in most cases. However, the underlying pathophysiology presents a more complex state and its management has not been conclusively determined. Research on this topic extends across anatomical, biomechanical and clinical literature; however, integration of findings is lacking. We propose that the current understanding of the underlying pathophysiology of lateral epicondylalgia can be conceptualised as encompassing three interrelated components: (i) the local tendon pathology, (ii) changes in the pain system, and (iii) motor system impairments. This paper presents a model that integrates these components on the basis of a literature review with the express aim of assisting in the targeting of specific treatments or combinations thereof to individual patients.
Coombes
B K
BK
Division of Physiotherapy, School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Queensland, Australia.
Bisset
L
L
Vicenzino
B
B
D004551:Elbow Joint / Q000473:pathology*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D011596:Psychomotor Disorders / Q000209:etiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology; D052256:Tendinopathy / Q000473:pathology*; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000473:pathology / Q000503:physiopathology* / Q000628:therapy; D016896:Treatment Outcome