Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization in Lateral Epicondylitis: A Case Report Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilizatio

Abstract

Lateral elbow and proximal forearm pain is a musculoskeletal problem often referred to as tennis elbow, lateral epicondylagy or lateral epicondylitis (LE). LE affects the upper limb and is caused by overloading of the elbow tendons. This condition is typically caused by repetitive movements of the wrist and arm that strain the extensor tendons. The diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis usually requires clinical assessment and in most cases non-surgical interventions are used as a management strategy. Physiotherapy and rehabilitation are widely used in the management of this condition. Rehabilitation guidelines support a variety of therapeutic modalities and exercise-based physical therapy has shown superior success in symptom improvement over long periods of time. Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) is an effective myofascial technique used to treat soft tissue disorders. IASTM is applied with instruments to eliminate scar tissue in soft tissues and activate fibroblasts in the natural healing process. After the rehabilitation program consisting of IASTM and eccentric muscle strengthening exercises applied to the forearm of a patient with rheumatoid arthritis and lateral epincolitis, the most significant improvement was seen in the patient's grip strength (+10 kg). Although the pre- and post-session reductions in pain were not permanent, it was seen to provide benefit in functional use. IASTM and eccentric study may be useful in patients with lateral epicondylitis.