Management of Lateral Epicondylosis.

J Hand Surg Am · Nov 2024 · Review

Gilmor R, Remily EA, Ingari JV

Rubin Institute for Advanced Orthopedics, Center for Joint Preservation and Replacement, Baltimore, MD

Hand & Upper Extremity Shoulder & Elbow

SUMMARY — THE REDUCTIONUpdated review of lateral epicondylosis management, noting most patients improve with nonoperative care while the best nonsurgical modality and the role of surgery in refractory cases remain debated.
Abstract, as published

Lateral epicondylosis is a common cause of lateral elbow pain and can lead to disability and overall diminished quality of life. Repetitive gripping and wrist extension is thought to lead to microtearing and degeneration of the extensor tendons. In general, patients with symptoms of lateral epicondylosis experience relief of symptoms with non-operative management alone. However, controversy remains concerning the role of non-surgical management and which modality facilitates the quickest recovery. Moreover, debate remains throughout the literature regarding surgical intervention and other treatment options for refractory cases. This article serves to provide an updated review of the various treatment options and management for treating lateral epicondylosis.

Featured in the 2026-10-18 issue.

← Local and Systemic Nail Plate Abnormalities: A Clinical Review.Treating Pregnant/Postpartum Patients in Hand Surgery Clinic:… →

The Reduction is a free email digest of newly published orthopaedic literature — a handful of new papers in the subspecialties you choose, each summarized like this one. Subscribe free or browse the archive.