Lateral epicondylitis of the elbow.

Lateral epicondylitis is a diagnostic term that describes a pattern of pain and localized tenderness at the lateral epicondyle of the distal humerus. The disorder was originally termed tennis elbow in 1883. This term remains in use despite the fact that most affected people are not tennis players. The incidence of lateral epicondylitis is equal among men and women. The average peak age distribution is 42 years (range, 30-50 years). Acute onset of symptoms is much more common in young athletes, and the chronic, recalcitrant pattern most often occurs in older people.This paper discusses the pathology, clinical presentation, and treatment of lateral epicondylitis. A brief description of nonoperative treatment is followed by an in-depth discussion of operative techniques for treating this disorder and a concise report on postoperative care, results, and failures.