Innovative neuroplastic healing: tendon Neuroplastic Training role in pain alleviation and boosting strength in lateral epicondylitis: a randomized controlled trial.

Background: Lateral epicondylitis pain affects the sensory-motor integration, affecting muscle activation and coordination, leading to deficit in grip strength and disability. Loading exercises helps in strengthening and in biomechanical control in the tendinopathies. The current study is planned to determine the effects of Tendon Neuroplastic Training on pain, strength, and disability in lateral epicondylitis patients.

Methods: This was a parallel design Randomized clinical trial conducted at National Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine from August 2022 to March 2023. Total n = 34 patients of lateral epicondylitis, of both genders, aged 25-45 years, having pain and tenderness over lateral epicondyle, with at least 2 special tests used for lateral epicondylitis (were recruited using non-probability purposive sampling. Sealed envelope method was used for random allocation into groups. Experimental group patients received Tendon Neuroplastic Training whereas active control was treated with Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis stretching and Myofascial release. Total 3 sessions/week were given to each patient for a total of 4 weeks. Outcome measures were Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Dynamometer and Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation for pain, strength and disability assessment.

Results: Tendon Neuroplastic Training group showed significant improvement (p < 0.05) to active control concerning pain reduction (effect size = 0.37) and improvement in disability (effect size = 0.449) Both groups showed equal positive effects regarding grip strength. (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: This study concluded that Tendon Neuroplastic Training has better effects on the reduction of pain and tennis elbow related disability with lateral epicondylitis. Therefore, the current study recommends the use of TNT for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Clinical trial number: The study was retrospectively registered at clinicaltrail.gov with the number NCT05707117, Registration date: 22-1-23.