Common tendinopathies around the elbow

Abstract

There are a number of factors that can contribute to the exacerbation of tendinopathies around the elbow. In order to effectively manage patients, it is important to understand the natural progression of these conditions, injury mechanisms, potential risk factors and the range of pathological manifestations. Presently, disease-modifying treatments for tendinopathy are lacking, placing non-operative approaches, staged physiotherapy and support at the forefront of primary options. Conservative management proves successful for medial and lateral epicondylitis, though some cases may require up to a year for improvement. Short-term relief can be achieved with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid injections, although their long-term efficacy is uncertain, and evidence for alternative injection therapies is limited. Surgical intervention can be considered if non-operative management proves ineffective after 6–12 months, often involving open resection, debridement, and repair. While arthroscopic techniques offer promise, they present inherent risks, particularly in patients with prior surgeries. Despite the rarity of distal triceps and biceps tendinopathies, prompt diagnosis and non-operative approaches are pivotal, with surgery considered if symptoms persist after 6 months. Overall, favourable outcomes can be achieved for common elbow tendinopathies with control of risk factors and appropriate care.