Tendinitis and Tendinopathies About the Elbow and Forearm

Abstract

Lateral epicondylitis, de Quervain tenosynovitis, and trigger finger are among the most common tendinopathies of the upper extremity. Lateral epicondylitis is a common condition that can be very frustrating to patients. Many patients will improve without any acute interventions. Physical therapy has been shown to be helpful as initial treatment, and surgery can be helpful for persistent symptoms. de Quervain tenosynovitis similarly responds well to nonsurgical modalities, including brace treatment and injections, and surgery can be effective for recalcitrant cases. Finally, trigger finger is a common condition that can result from thickening and scarring of the A1 pulley, which can be bothersome to patients. Typical treatment in this area involves corticosteroid injections or surgery as definitive management. The treatments for these conditions are straightforward following the approach described herein and could be managed by any general orthopaedic surgeon.