241. Tennis Elbow: A Practical Guide w/ Marc Surdyka and Chris Hughen

Lateral elbow tendinopathy, commonly known as tennis elbow, represents a non-inflammatory condition requiring a shift away from outdated "itis" terminology and passive treatments like corticosteroid injections. Clinical diagnosis relies on subjective history and physical examination, as imaging often reveals common, asymptomatic tendon changes that do not necessitate surgical intervention. The condition typically follows a 6-12 month natural recovery trajectory, making long-term prognosis favorable even without invasive procedures. Effective management prioritizes graded load management and activity modification over complete rest, which can induce deconditioning. Clinicians should tailor rehabilitation to the individual, balancing local tissue loading—such as wrist extension and supination—with broader health factors. Avoiding the "quick fix" mentality regarding injections or surgery is essential, as these often yield poor long-term outcomes compared to consistent, progressive, and active rehabilitation strategies.