PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Jean-Louis Croisier
AU  - Marguerite Foidart-Dessalle
AU  - France Tinant
AU  - Jean-Michel Crielaard
AU  - Bénédicte Forthomme
TI  - An isokinetic eccentric programme for the management of chronic lateral epicondylar tendinopathy
AID  - 10.1136/bjsm.2006.033324
DP  - 2007 Apr 01
TA  - British Journal of Sports Medicine
PG  - 269--275
VI  - 41
IP  - 4
4099  - http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/41/4/269.short
4100  - http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/41/4/269.full
SO  - Br J Sports Med2007 Apr 01; 41
AB  - Background: Lateral epicondylitis represents a frequent overuse injury. In spite of many conservative treatment procedures, prolonged symptoms and relapse are frequently observed. Objective: To compare the outcome of patients performing an isokinetic eccentric training with that of age-, gender-, activity-matched patients receiving a non-strengthening classical rehabilitation. Methods: Ninety-two patients with unilateral chronic lateral epicondylar tendinopathy (mean duration of symptoms 8±3 months) were assigned either to a control group (n = 46) or to an eccentrically trained group (n = 46). The control group underwent a passive standardised rehabilitation programme that excluded strengthening exercises. In addition to this programme, the trained group also performed eccentric exercises based on the repetitive lengthening of the active musculo-tendinous unit. The latter exercises started with submaximal contraction intensity and slow speed movement. Modalities were progressively intensified (increase in intensity contraction and speed movement) over a long priod of treatment. Programme effectiveness was assessed through pain score evaluation, a disability questionnaire, muscle strength measurement and ultrasonographic examination. Results: Compared to the non-strengthening control group, the following observations were made in the eccentrically trained group: (1) a significantly more marked reduction of pain intensity, mainly after one month of treatment; (2) an absence of strength deficit on the involved side through bilateral comparison for the forearm supinator and wrist extensor muscles; (3) an improvement of the tendon image as demonstrated by decreasing thickness and a recovered homogenous tendon structure; and (4) a more marked improvement in disability status during occupational, spare time and sports activities. Conclusion: These results highlight the relevance of implementing isokinetic adapted eccentric training in the management of chronic lateral epicondylar tendinopathy.