Overuse Syndrome of the Extensor Tendon of the Forearm
The overuse syndrome of the extensor tendon of the forearm is lateral epicondylitis (also known as tennis elbow). 1
Anatomical and Pathophysiological Basis
Lateral epicondylitis specifically involves the common extensor tendon origin at the lateral epicondyle, with the extensor carpi radialis brevis being the structure most commonly affected. 2, 3, 4
- The condition results from repetitive wrist extension activities that overload the extensor tendons of the forearm 1
- Activities requiring repetitive wrist flexion and extension contribute to its development, commonly occurring in racquet sports players and occupations with repetitive forearm movements 1
- Despite the name "epicondylitis," this is actually a degenerative tendinopathy (tendinosus), not an inflammatory condition 2, 5
Epidemiology
- Lateral epicondylosis is seven to 10 times more common than medial epicondylosis 1
- It involves the dominant arm 75 percent of the time 1
- Affects men and women equally and is most common after 40 years of age 1, 3
- Estimated to affect 1% to 3% of the general population 2
Why the Other Options Are Incorrect
- Carpal tunnel syndrome involves median nerve compression at the wrist, not extensor tendon overuse [@General Medicine Knowledge@]
- Bursitis is inflammation of a bursa, not a tendon overuse syndrome [@General Medicine Knowledge@]
- Medial epicondylitis affects the flexor-pronator muscle group at the medial epicondyle, not the extensor tendons 1