Effect of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) and Phonophoresis Treatment in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is tendinopathy of the forearm extensor muscles, often caused by overuse or repetitive use, forced wrist extension, or direct trauma to the epicondyle. It is the most common cause of lateral elbow pain. Although also known as tennis elbow, lateral epicondylitis often develops as a work-related condition and is therefore a significant public health problem.

ESWT; It involves transmitting high-intensity acoustic pressure waves produced by electrohydraulic, electromagnetic or piezoelectric devices to the target area of the body in a short time through the gel. It has been reported that ESWT increases collagen synthesis in tendons, bones and other soft tissues, accelerates vascularization and reduces pain.

ultrasound; It has been used for many years in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders such as tendinitis, epicondylitis, tenosynovitis, bursitis and osteoarthritis. It produces acoustic waves through the conversion of electrical energy. These waves turn into heat as they pass through tissues at different resistance levels. Ultrasound is also used to enhance percutaneous absorption of drugs in phonophoresis applications.

Inclusion criteria

• Individuals aged 18-65
• Those who signed the informed consent form
• Painful palpation of the lateral epicondyle
• Positive Mill's, Maudsley's and Cozen's tests
• Patients who have had complaints for at least 3 months

Exclusion criteria

• Those who have had corticosteroid, PRP, prolotherapy, hyaluronic acid etc. injections into the elbow area within 3 months or those who have received physical therapy
• Those with cervical radiculopathy
• Those who have had surgery on the elbow
• Those with an open wound on the elbow
• Those with a history of malignancy
• Those with rheumatological diseases
• Those with neurological diseases
• Pregnancy
• Infection