Efficiency of Kinesio Taping in Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

The numerical rating scale (NRS) was used to evaluate the pain level of the patients included in the study. It is a one-dimensional scale consisting of 11 items that measure pain intensity in adults and is a segmented - intermittent numerical version of the visual analogue scale (VAS).

According to the Cyriax method, each joint tested was kept in the mid- range of motion, without allowing movement. Resistance was applied to the forearm distal to avoid muscle involvement other than that tested in pronation and supination, thus the wrist was prevented to be involved. Subsequently, the patients were asked to apply a maximum force for at least three seconds. Resisted wrist extension, third finger extension, elbow supination, and pronation were evaluated.

The maximal isometric handgrip strength was measured in pounds using the Jamar hand dynamometer (Baseline® Hand Dynamometer - HiRes™ Gauge - ER™ 300 lbCapacity). Measurement was performed in two different positions, elbow at extension and 90° flexion. In the first position, the patient was in the sitting position, shoulder abducted to 0° and in neutral rotation, elbow position was at 90° flexion, the forearm was in neutral rotation and wrist was in the neutral position. In the second position, while the patient was standing, shoulder abducted to 0° and in neutral rotation, the elbow was in full extension, forearm and wrist were in the neutral position. The patient was asked to squeeze the dynamometer with full force for three seconds every 30 seconds. This procedure was repeated three times and the mean measurement values were obtained

The Patient-rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) is a questionnaire with subscales related to pain and function, which is used to evaluate upper extremity functionality. It is specially prepared for patients with lateral epicondylitis.Scoring ranges from 0 (no pain/disability) to 100 (worst possible pain and disability). The total score can be 100 points maximum and low scores refer to better functionality.Turkish validity and reliability was proven by Altan et al.

The SF-36 is valid and reliable for patients with chronic musculoskeletal disorders. The items include eight different domains that indicate physical functioning, physical role limitation, pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, emotional role limitation, and mental health. The score of each domain ranges from 0 (worst quality of life) to 100 (the best quality of life).