Comparative Study on the Effect of Shock Wave Therapy and Phonophoresis in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis in Healthcare Professionals

Abstract

Background : Lateral Epicondylitis a commonly occurring overuse injury associated with repetitive use of wrist and forearm. History and provocative tests can be used to reproduce the symptoms and diagnose the same. Conservative management of lateral epicondylitis includes a variety of electrotherapeutic modalities.

Aims and Objectives : To study and compare the effect of shock wave therapy  and phonophoresis on pain pressure threshold, grip strength and function in subjects with acute lateral epicondylitis.

Methodology :  30 subjects with lateral epicondylitis were randomly allocated into two group groups via chit method after gaining ethical clearance. The study was conducted in 2022. Group A was given shock wave therapy and group B was given phonophoresis sodium diclofenac for 6 sessions, alternately, 3 sessions per week. Primary outcome measures- pain pressure threshold in kg/cm2, grip strength in kg and PRTEE score were evaluated before the first session and after the end of sixth session.  

Results : Results revealed statistical significance in terms of pain pressure threshold (P<0.05) and PRTEE score (P<0.05) within the groups, while grip strength (P<0.05) in the shock wave therapy group. No statistical significance was revealed for any outcome measures between groups (P>0.05).

Conclusion : It can be concluded that shock wave therapy and phonophoresis with sodium diclofenac both are equally effective in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.