A epicondilite lateral, também conhecida como “cotovelo do tenista”, é uma inflamação dos tendões que se ligam à região lateral do cotovelo. This condition occurs due to repetitive movements of the forearm and wrist, leading to micro-injuries in the tendons of the wrist and finger extensors. Despite the name, it does not only affect tennis players, being common in individuals who perform repetitive manual activities, such as painters, carpenters, typists, and factory workers.
The main symptoms include:
– Pain on the outer side of the elbow, which may radiate to the forearm and wrist.
– Difficulty gripping objects or performing movements involving forearm rotation.
– Tenderness to touch on the outer side of the elbow.
Treatment:
The treatment of epicondylitis may vary depending on the severity of the condition, and can include conservative approaches, minimally invasive techniques, and, in more severe cases, surgical interventions.
Conservative Treatment:
– Rest and activity modification
– Specific stretching and muscle strengthening exercises
– Use of orthoses ("elbow brace/band")
– Physiotherapy
Minimally Invasive Treatments:
– Ondas de Choque (Focais e/ou Radiais)
– Microtenotomia + Plasma Rico em Plaquetas (PRP) – Procedimento que utiliza fatores de crescimento do próprio paciente para estimular a reparação dos tendões.
– Procedimento infiltrativo ecoguiado
Tratamento Cirúrgico
Quando os sintomas persistem apesar da abordagem conservadora e minimamente invasiva, a cirurgia pode ser considerada.
