Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow): A Comprehensive Review of Historical Perspectives, Etiology, and Emerging Treatment Modalities

Background: Elbow pain is a common complaint among patients who refer to general medicine, orthopedics, and rheumatology clinics. Lateral epicondylitis is one of the most common diagnoses in these patients. We present a comprehensive narrative review on different aspects of this affliction. Methods: We reviewed all medical literature on the topic in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Scopus, by searching for the keywords of Tennis Elbow and Lateral epicondylitis. We also reviewed the reference textbooks for orthopedics and hand surgery. All the related references in these sources, which seemed to be important, were also reviewed. Results: Patients typically present with pain on the lateral side of their elbow, and simple activities such as shaking hands or opening jars may provoke pain, significantly impacting their quality of life. This condition predominantly affects middle-aged individuals and occurs equally in women and men. Lateral epicondylitis presents significant challenges for diagnosis and management, with its etiology, diagnosis, and treatment being subjects of debate over the last 150 years. Although most of patients achieve relief with nonsurgical treatment—estimated at approximately 85%—a small percentage may ultimately require surgical intervention; however, many patients in this group will find relief from their symptoms. Conclusion: While lateral epicondylitis is often perceived as a straightforward condition, the complexities of its diagnosis and management underscore the need for continued research and clinical awareness. Future studies should focus on elucidating specific underlying mechanisms of the condition, optimizing treatment protocols, and addressing gaps in understanding that contribute to frustrations experienced by both patients and healthcare providers.