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Lateral and Medial Epicondylitis
Lateral epicondylitis and medial epicondylitis are enthesopathies occurring at the extensor carpi radialis brevis origin and the medial flexor-pronator origin, respectively. Despite the suffix -itis, they are not inflammatory. Lateral epicondylitis occurs approximately six times more frequently than medial epicondylitis. Onset of both conditions typically occurs in middle age. Some researchers theorize that these conditions are the result of overuse and microscopic tearing of the tendon origin, but these theories have not been proved. Management of lateral and medial epicondylitis is primarily nonsurgical. Evidence suggests that epicondylitis resolves on its own over an extended period. This chapter presents the indications and contraindications for surgical management of lateral and medial epicondylitis. Results of surgical and nonsurgical treatment, alternative treatments, techniques, and strategies for avoiding pitfalls and complications are also reviewed.