Often referred to as “tennis elbow”, this regional elbow disease is not confined exclusively to sportsmen and women. It results from occasional or chronic overstrain of the elbow. Its origins may be isolated or complex, involving pathology of the tendon insertions on the bone, articular cartilage wear or radial nerve neuritis. Sometimes, it can also result from neck pain, manifesting as neuralgia projected onto the lateral aspect of the elbow and forearm. Pain is the main symptom, hence the preferable term “epicondylalgia”. From the outset, treatment involves stopping all activities, whether occasional or permanent, that require wrist extension against resistance. Pain treatment includesa combination of anti-inflammatory and analgesic drugs, in appropriate doses. Infiltrations should not be repeated, and rehabilitation is specific and tailored to the patient’s needs. Wearing a bracelet or elbow support can sometimes be beneficial. When surgery is envisaged, the decision rests with the patient. To assess final recovery, a timeframe of 6 to 9 months is required, and in general, time off work lasts around 3 months, with a margin of plus or minus 1 month, after the operation. Surgery for this condition involves several methods, depending on the origin of the pain: tendon surgery (lengthening of one or more tendons, disinsertion of tendons from the bone), joint surgery with cartilage reduction and synovectomy, and nerve surgery with release of the radial nerve. Sutures are removed between 2 and 3 weeks, depending on their type. In some cases, an elbow immobilization splint may be necessary during this period, after which rehabilitation begins gently, before progressing to non-resistance strengthening exercises. Pain often persists for many months, but is generally less intense than before the operation. Taking painkillers throughout the day can help anticipate heavy tasks or pain triggers. Swimming is an excellent way of restoring functional balance to the upper limb. When returning to work, it may be necessary to take analgesics or even muscle relaxants in the evening before going to bed. In some cases, the patient may experience permanent scarring, partial elbow stiffness (limited extension) and pain. If pain persists for more than a year after surgery, it is advisable to have a check-up with the surgeon who performed the operation.
