Effect of Manual therapy Approaches in Management of Tennis Elbow: A Review Article

Document Type : Review articles

Authors

1 Department of basic science, Faculty of physical therapy , Delta University

2 basic science department Faculty of physical therapy, Cairo University . Giza .Egypt

3 Basic Science Department, Faculty of physical therapy .Cairo University . Giza. Egypt

4 orthopedic and spine surgery department , kasr Al-ainy.Giza , Cairo

Abstract

Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a frequent musculoskeletal disorder that results from repetitive overuse, leading to microtrauma and degeneration of the common extensor tendon. The condition manifests as pain and tenderness around the lateral epicondyle and is aggravated by wrist extension and gripping motion. Despite its name, tennis elbow affects individuals beyond athletes, impacting 1% to 3% of adults annually, primarily in their dominant arm. Symptoms can last more than a year in 20% of cases, necessitating effective management strategies. This review examines the effects of manual approaches that include Mulligan Mobilization with Movement (MWM) and neural mobilization techniques, deep transverse friction massage (DTFM), muscle energy technique (MET), and stretching exercises for wrist extensors on reducing pain and enhancing grip strength and function in subjects with lateral epicondylitis. The literature suggests that manual approaches significantly minimize pain and improve grip strength in subjects with lateral epicondylitis. Manual therapy, in combination with rehabilitation exercises, is an effective approach to improving joint mechanics, restoring normal movement patterns, reducing compensatory muscle activity, and decreasing inflammation.

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