Myofascial pain in lateral epicondylalgia: A review

Yaniv Shmushkevich, Leonid Kalichman

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

22 Scopus citations

Abstract

Background: There is an ongoing debate about the myofascial component, characterized by the presence of myofascial trigger points (MTrPs) in lateral epicondylalgia (LE). Objectives: To review current evidence of the association between myofascial pain and LE, including efficacy of treatment, focusing on myofascial pain. Methods: PubMed, Google Scholar and PEDro databases were searched without search limitations from inception until October 2012 for terms relating to LE and MTrPs. Results: Two observational studies showed a high prevalence of MTrPs in LE patients compared to healthy controls. Three randomized controlled trials demonstrated significant improvement in pain and functional outcomes after application of soft tissue techniques, focusing on the myofascial component. Conclusion: Myofascial pain and MTrPs may be part of the LE etiology. Treatment focusing on the myofascial component seems to be effective in reducing pain and improving function in patients with LE. Additional trials are essential to attain a solid conclusion.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)434-439
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies
Volume17
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - 1 Oct 2013

Keywords

  • Lateral epicondylalgia
  • Myofascial pain
  • Myofascial trigger points
  • Review
  • Tennis elbow
  • Treatment

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Complementary and Manual Therapy
  • Physical Therapy, Sports Therapy and Rehabilitation
  • Rehabilitation
  • Complementary and alternative medicine

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