A New Physiotherapeutic Approach On Alleviating Physical Ailments Of Lateral Epicondylalgia

Abstract

Introduction:  Tennis elbow medically known as Lateral epicondylitis is inflammation of the lateral epicondyle at common extensor origin. There is a wide spectrum of treatment modalities in lateral epicondylitis including drug therapy, non-electrotherapeutical treatments, acupuncture, electrotherapeutical treatments and surgery. The present study was conducted with an aim to compare the effect of HVLAT on various physical dimensions in lateral epicondylalgia among male and female population of various occupations.

Methodology: The enrolled subjects (n=160) were randomly divided into two groups, group A (experimental, n= 80) and group B (control, n=80) by computerized randomization. The experimental group subjects were given three sessions of High Velocity Low Amplitude Thrust (HVLAT) single thrust at elbow on alternate days. The control group subjects were given Conventional Physiotherapy.to assess whether there is a difference on the effect of HVLAT among male, female and various occupations, the experimental group was further clustered.

Results: The results were calculated using paired t test to find the effect of HVLAT on pain and Hand grip strength by Paired t test within the groups and unpaired t test among the groups. 

Conclusion:

Based on the results of the study it is concluded that HVLAT is beneficial in improving hand grip strength, functional independence and alleviating pain in patient with Lateral Epicondylalgia irrespective of gender or occupation.