Introduction:

Epicondylitis is the most common cause of elbow pain and it affects between 1 and 3% of adults yearly. It occurs due to traction on the extensor tendons of the wrist and hand in work and sports activities.

Objectives:

To bring up-to-date the fundamental concepts on the diagnosis, clinical condition and treatment of lateral epicondylalgia of the elbow.

Methods:

2011-2021 publications with the terms "lateral epicondylitis of the elbow", "tennis elbow", "lateral epicondylalgias of the elbow" and "treatment of lateral epicondylitis of the elbow" were reviewed.

Finding:

The lateral epicondylar muscles originate from a common tendon, the primary lesion is at the origin of the short brachial muscle, as well in the common extensor of the fingers. The symptoms are caused by repetitive wrist extension movements and the pain is localized to the anterodistal aspect of the epicondyle. Radiography, magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasound contribute to the diagnosis. 90% of cases resolve with conservative treatment.

Conclusions:

Non-surgical methods for lateral epicondylalgia of the elbow provide satisfactory results; while surgical treatments, including arthroscopic treatment, are indicated in patients with persistent symptoms after six and up to twelve months of conservative treatment.

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