Clinical Research Directory

Effectiveness of Topical Chinese Medicine Ointment Therapy (TCMO) (Ng's Prescription) Eccentric Exercise for Tennis Elbow as Control: a Randomized Controlled Trial.

B. Introduction Tennis elbow, medically termed lateral epicondylitis (LE), is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain and tenderness over the lateral epicondyle of the humerus. Excessive mechanical stress on the elbow tendons, often caused by repetitive movements or manual labor, contributes to microtrauma and cumulative strain of the forearm and elbow musculature. Clinically, the site of maximal tenderness is situated just anterior and distal to the lateral epicondyle itself. Moreover, studies have demonstrated that pain intensity and grip strength are closely associated with manual test outcomes in chronic tennis elbow, further supporting the functional relevance of these diagnostic measures. Although historically associated with racquet sports, contemporary evidence indicates that the condition is more frequently linked to occupational and daily activities such as typing, carpentry, and healthcare work.Epidemiological studies estimate an annual prevalence of approximately 1.3% and an incidence of 3.4 per 1,000 individuals, making it one of the most common causes of elbow pain in adults aged 30-60 years. The disorder exerts a considerable impact on modern life. Participants often experience reduced grip strength and functional limitations that interfere with essential tasks such as lifting, writing, or using tools. This functional impairment contributes to work productivity loss and increased healthcare utilization, resulting in substantial economic burden. Moreover, lifestyle factors such as smoking and repetitive manual work has been shown to negatively influence prognosis, with a subset of participants requiring surgical intervention after six months of unsuccessful conservative treatment. Collectively, these findings underscore that tennis elbow is not merely a sports-related injury but a significant occupational health issue, affecting individual well-being and societal efficiency in today's workforce. A pilot randomize controlled cross-over trial of TCMO (Ng's prescription) in 2024 has significant efficacy on LE and can effectively improve the pain symptoms of participants (95%CI: -22.4 to -5.28, p: 0.0032). Modern drug treatments for tennis elbow mainly focus on reducing pain and inflammation. While this can provide short-term relief and help participants tolerate daily activities or rehabilitation, it often does not address the underlying tendon degeneration and impaired healing. C. Trial Objective 1. Primary objective: To evaluate the efficacy of TCMO (Ng's prescription) in reducing pain intensity of LE through randomized controlled trial (RCT). 2. Secondary objective: To evaluate safety of TCMO (Ng's prescription) of LE through randomized controlled trial (RCT). To assess functional improvement of TCMO (Ng's prescription) (PRTEE). Randomization and allocation concealment To minimize research bias, 48 participants will be assigned to two treatment groups and a control group in a 1:1 ratio. Block randomization via Sealed Envelope tool, with gender as the stratification criterion. Sealed opaque envelopes and password-protected file. RA generates sequence; Research Assistant II (RAII) blinded. To further minimize potential bias, evaluators and data analysts involved in the study will be blinded to treatment assignments. RAII will manage and analyze collected data. The PI will assess participant outcomes and oversee the entire study process. Group A: receive Topical Chinese Medicine Ointment (TCMO)（Ng's prescription）and eccentric exercise Group B: receive eccentric exercise only

Effect of Scapular Stabilization Exercises and ESWT in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis

We aim to investigate the effects of adding scapular stabilization exercises to the extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) protocol in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis on pain, muscle strength, functional status, and quality of life.

Efficacy and Safety of Selected Traditional Chinese Medicine Elbow Manipulation Versus Mill's Manipulation as Control for Lateral Epicondylitis

Background: Lateral epicondylitis (LE), also referred to as lateral elbow tendinopathy and tennis elbow, is commonly seen clinically as an orthopedic disease. Joint manipulations is a common LE treatment, which mainly decrease pain and increases range of motion (ROM). This greatly improve the quality of life of LE patients. The selected Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) manipulation is created by Prof. Ng Zhong Neng and clinically used in treating LE for more than 20 years. To date, there is no statistical demonstration regarding the safety and effectiveness of this technique. Consequently, this clinical trial is designed to provide the first systematic evaluation of the technique's efficacy and safety. Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of selected TCM elbow manipulation in treating LE. Methods: A clinical trial will enroll 40 eligible patients diagnosed with LE who meet the inclusion criteria. They will be randomized into two groups, having 20 participants in each group. Group A will receive an exercise program and a manipulation treatment of Mill's manipulation. Meanwhile, Group B will receive the same exercise program and the selected TCM manipulation. Patient Related Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE), ROM of wrist and forearm, and pain free grip strength (PFGS) of the affected elbow will be evaluated at the beginning and after the last of intervention in this clinical trial. Treatment effect and sequence effect will be analyze with a linear-mixed effect model by Jamovi (2.7.17).

Understanding Patient Preferences When Deciding on a Voluntary Musculoskeletal Test

The goal of this clinical trial is to understand how people make decisions about imaging tests for common musculoskeletal problems (like arthritis, tendon problems, or nerve compression). The study involves adult patients attending a musculoskeletal specialty clinic. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. Does having a structured conversation about the pros and cons of a test affect how much a person wants to have that test? 2. Does that conversation help people feel more confident and less conflicted about their decision? Researchers will compare patients who have a values-based discussion with a researcher to those who receive brief written information about the test, to see if these approaches affect how people feel about having the test. Participants will: * Read a brief scenario about a proposed diagnostic imaging test (like an X-ray, MRI, CT, or ultrasound). * Either take part in a short structured conversation or read brief information about the test. * Answer a short survey about their thoughts on the test. This study does not involve actual medical testing or affect your clinical care. It is for research purposes only.

Central Sensitization and Ultrasound in Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is a common musculoskeletal disorder characterized by pain and tenderness over the lateral elbow and may become chronic despite conservative treatment. Although LE is primarily associated with local tendon pathology, central sensitization, radial nerve involvement, and psychosocial factors may contribute to persistent pain and disability. This cross-sectional case-control study aims primarily to compare remote pressure pain thresholds between individuals with chronic LE and healthy controls. Secondary objectives are to compare clinical, functional, psychosocial, and ultrasonographic findings between the groups and to investigate the factors associated with functional impairment in individuals with chronic LE.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy Added to ESWT for Lateral Epicondylitis

This randomized, sham-controlled, assessor-blinded clinical trial will evaluate the efficacy of pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) added to extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in adults with lateral epicondylitis. A total of 70 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either ESWT plus active PEMF or ESWT plus sham PEMF. Both groups will also receive the same standardized home exercise program. Treatment will be administered once weekly for 5 weeks. Participants will be assessed before treatment, at the end of the 5-week treatment period, and 3 months after treatment. The primary outcome will be the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) total score. Secondary outcomes will include pain intensity measured using the Numeric Rating Scale, pressure pain threshold, maximum and pain-free grip strength, and ultrasonographic assessment of the common extensor tendon, including tendon thickness, hypoechogenicity, and fibrillar pattern abnormalities.

Comparison of Three Physiotherapy Approaches in Lateral Epicondylitis Treatment

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of physiotherapy alone (PTA), Kinesiotaping (KT) combined with physiotherapy (KTPT), and wrist rest splint combined with physiotherapy (PTWJRS) treatments for the treatment of LE

A Comparison of the Effects of Combining ESWT With Blood Flow Restriction Therapy in Patients Diagnosed With Lateral Epicondylitis: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Lateral epicondylitis is a chronic degenerative tendinopathy characterized by pain, tenderness, decreased grip strength, and functional limitations, particularly on the outer part of the elbow. While conservative treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), physical therapy, and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) are used, surgical methods are considered as alternatives in resistant cases. ESWT reduces pain and inflammation by increasing vascularization in the targeted area and supporting tissue regeneration. Blood flow restriction therapy (BFR), on the other hand, promotes muscle hypertrophy and strength gains through low-intensity exercise. The biochemical effects of both methods increase cellular proliferation and protein synthesis through different mechanisms, thereby supporting tissue healing and functional recovery. However, there are no studies in the literature examining the effects of combining ESWT and BFR in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Therefore, in our study, we aimed to evaluate the effects of the combined application of ESWT and BFR on pain, muscle strength, and functionality in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis. Patients will be divided into two groups and will undergo treatment for a total of 4 weeks, with one session per week. The study group will receive ESWT treatment in combination with blood flow restriction therapy (BFR). The control group will receive only ESWT. In both groups, the intensity of the ESWT treatment will be increased between sessions based on the patient's pain tolerance. Pain levels, grip strength, wrist isometric muscle strength, and upper extremity functional status will be assessed in patients in both the treatment and control groups before and after treatment. The effectiveness of the methods will be statistically analyzed. The findings obtained may contribute to the development of an innovative, evidence-based treatment protocol in the field of physical therapy and rehabilitation, thereby filling a gap in the literature aimed at improving pain management and functional recovery in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Exercise Therapy and Orthoses in Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy: Comparative Effects

The aim of this study was to investigate whether adding a forearm counterforce brace or a wrist orthosis to exercise therapy provided additional benefits in pain, functional status, grip strength, and perceived recovery in individuals with lateral elbow tendinopathy, compared with exercise therapy alone.

Illness Perception and Treatment Expectations in Lateral Elbow Pain

This cross-sectional, correlational study aims to determine the predictors of illness perception and treatment expectations in adults with chronic lateral elbow pain. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical findings (pain intensity, pain duration, elbow-specific function) and psychosocial variables (pain self-efficacy, fear-avoidance beliefs, pain catastrophizing) will be examined as candidate predictors of two patient-centred constructs: illness perception, measured with the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, and treatment expectation, measured with the Treatment Expectation Questionnaire. Data will be analysed using hierarchical multiple linear regression in three predictor blocks. The study is reported according to the STROBE statement.

Effects of Eccentric Exercises Along With Muscle Energy Technique in Lateral Epicondylitis

This study is intended to find the effects of Eccentric exercises along with muscle energy technique (MET) on pain, functional disability, range of motion and grip strength in Lateral Epicondylitis. For this trial, participants will be enrolled with their consent after assessing on basis of inclusion \& exclusion criteria from orthopedic workshop, Jinnah post graduate medical center Karachi. Total of 66 participants will be recruited and will be equally randomized into three groups consisting of 22 participants in each group. They would recruit into either Eccentric exercise (EE) along with MET group (group A) or MET group (group B) or EE group (group C). Participants will be allocated to intervention by sealed envelope method and will undergo a total of 8 treatment sessions within 2 weeks. Baseline assessment will carry out before treatment on 1st session and follow-up assessment on 8th session after treatment through tool named as Numeric Pain-Rating Scale (NPRS), Patient Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE), Goniometer and Handheld dynamometer.

Effects of 8 Weeks of Two Exercise Programs on Risk Factors Associated With Epicondylitis in Amateur Padel Players

Background: The physical demands of padel can increase the risk of injuries, particularly lateral epicondylitis in the elbow. Key risk factors include deficits in forearm muscle strength and rotator cuff weakness. Prevention programs focus on forearm strengthening, with no studies on rotator cuff strength. This study aims to compare two exercise programs designed to reduce risk factors for lateral epicondylitis in amateur padel athletes, specifically wrist extensor strength, grip strength, and rotator cuff strength.

Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Capacitive and Resistive Energy Transfer Therapy for Lateral Epicondylitis

This prospective, randomized, double-blind, sham-controlled clinical trial aims to evaluate the efficacy of Capacitive and Resistive Energy Transfer (TECAR) therapy in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a TECAR plus exercise group or a sham TECAR plus exercise group. Both groups will receive a standardized home exercise program including elbow and wrist range-of-motion, stretching, eccentric strengthening, and handgrip strengthening exercises. The TECAR group will additionally receive active TECAR therapy, while the control group will receive sham TECAR treatment using the same device and treatment protocol without therapeutic energy delivery. Outcome assessments will be performed by a blinded evaluator at baseline, immediately after treatment, and at 1- and 2-month follow-up visits. The study aims to determine whether TECAR therapy provides additional benefits in pain relief, functional improvement, and clinical outcomes when combined with exercise therapy in patients with lateral epicondylitis.

Mobilization With Movement Verses Cyriax Techniques Among Athletes With Lateral Epicondylitis

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Mobilization with Movement (MWM) and Cyriax techniques in athletes diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). Lateral epicondylitis commonly causes pain, reduced grip strength, and impaired proprioception, particularly in racquet and throwing sports players. A total of 56 participants aged 25-40 years with symptoms of less than three months will be randomly assigned to either the MWM group or the Cyriax group. Both groups will receive treatment five times per week for four weeks. Outcomes including elbow proprioception (Joint Position Sense test), pain and functional disability (Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation), and grip strength (Handheld Dynamometer) will be assessed at baseline, at 2 weeks, and at 4 weeks. The study aims to determine which treatment method provides superior improvement in pain reduction, functional recovery, and proprioceptive enhancement.

Blood Flow Restriction & Tennis Elbow Rehab

Lateral epicondylitis (LE), often referred to as "tennis elbow" is a common and debilitating overuse injury affecting 1-3% of adults annually. LE is most often defined as a syndrome of pain near the area of the lateral epicondyle of the elbow commonly effecting the origin of the extensor carpi radialis brevis with associated weakness; it most commonly effects the dominant arm. The best treatment for LE is unknown and research to support current treatment methods are insufficient. A common limitation in functional recovery experienced by this population is pain at the lateral aspect of the elbow. As such, innovative therapeutic interventions directed at quickly reducing pain may address this unmet need and allow for improved outcomes, as well as earlier return to function.

Wrist Heavy Slow Resistance and Shoulder Stabilization Exercises on Pain, Grip Strength and Functional Ability in Lateral Epicondylitis

The study will compare the shoulder and wrist treatment approaches to determine their effect on elbow. Thirty-two medically stable participants with active shoulder and wrist movements will be enrolled into two groups. Both groups will receive structured training for six weeks. Outcomes will be measured using standardized assessment tools. The aim is to identify the more effective strategy for improving upper limb kinetic chain which is affected by lateral epicondylitis

Trial of Blood Flow Restriction Plus Physical Therapy vs. Physical Therapy Alone for Lateral Epicondylitis

Open label randomized controlled trial comparing evidenced based physical/occupational therapy vs. physical/occupational therapy including blood flow restriction tourniquet in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow).

Doxycycline for Elbow Tendinopathy

To evaluate the feasibility of subantimicrobial -dose (SD) doxycycline to improve outcomes of nonsurgical management of elbow tendinopathy via matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) inhibition as well as evaluate if participants will be compliant to with prescribed medication and exercise treatment. Our working hypothesis is that patients with elbow tendinopathy will be receptive to treatment with SD-doxycycline and compliant with the prescribed treatment.

Effectiveness of Low-Load Resistance Training With Blood Flow Restriction in Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as tennis elbow, is a frequent musculoskeletal condition that causes pain, reduced grip strength, and functional limitations in daily activities. Exercise-based rehabilitation is a key component of treatment; however, the optimal exercise approach remains uncertain. Low-load resistance training combined with blood flow restriction (LLRT-BFR) has emerged as a promising method that may enhance training effects while using lower exercise loads, potentially reducing mechanical stress on the affected tissues while providing benefits comparable to high-load resistance training. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the clinical and ultrasonographic effects of LLRT-BFR in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Adults aged 18-65 years with a recent diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis who meet predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria will be enrolled and randomly assigned to one of two exercise-based treatment groups. Both groups will participate in the same supervised low-load resistance exercise program, while one group will perform the exercises with blood flow restriction and the other group will receive a sham application without meaningful blood flow restriction. Participants will undergo supervised exercise sessions twice weekly for six weeks. Outcomes will be assessed at baseline, on the first day after completion of treatment, and at 4 and 12 weeks during follow-up. The primary outcome will focus on functional status, while secondary outcomes will include pain intensity, pain sensitivity, grip strength, ultrasonographic measurements of tendon and muscle structure, and patient-reported treatment satisfaction. By comparing these two exercise approaches, this study aims to provide evidence regarding the effectiveness and safety of LLRT-BFR and to clarify its potential role in the rehabilitation of patients with lateral epicondylitis.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Mesotherapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the efficacy of mesotherapy in patients with lateral epicondylitis and to determine whether it is as effective as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT). Is mesotherapy an effective method in patients with lateral epicondylitis? Researchers will compare Mesotherapy to extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in patient with Lateral epicondylitis. Patients will be randomly assigned to either the Mesotherapy group or the ESWT group using a closed envelope method. * Group 1 (Mesotherapy group): Patients will receive a total of 5 sessions of mesotherapy, with one session every 7 days. * Group 2 (ESWT group): Patients will receive a total of 5 sessions of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT), with one session every 7 days. Patients will be assessed at three time points: before treatment, 30 minutes after the completion of the treatment, and 12 weeks after the completion of the treatment

Hyaluronic Acid and Amino Acid Combination Versus Exercise for Chronic Lateral Epicondylitis

This retrospective, controlled clinical study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a targeted biological support injection containing a hyaluronic acid and amino acid combination in patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow). Medical records will be reviewed to compare outcomes between patients treated in routine clinical practice with a 3-dose injection regimen (weeks 0, 2, and 4) plus a home exercise program and those treated with a home exercise program alone. Key outcome measures include pain intensity (VAS), functional status (PRTEE), grip strength, and pressure pain threshold.

Eccentric Exercise With Blood Flow Restriction vs Resistance Training for Lateral Epicondylitis

This randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effectiveness of eccentric training combined with blood flow restriction (ECC+BFR) versus heavy slow resistance (HSR) training in patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis. The study will recruit 40 participants (accounting for 10% attrition), aged 25-45 years, from Sakina Memorial Hospital Sheikhupura and University of Lahore Teaching Hospital using convenience sampling. Participants will be randomly allocated into two groups: an interventional group receiving ECC+BFR and a control group undergoing HSR training. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for 8 weeks under professional supervision. Outcome measures including pain intensity (NPRS), patient-specific functional performance (PSFS), muscle strength, and hypertrophy will be assessed at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks. Data will be analyzed using SPSS, with appropriate parametric or non-parametric tests applied after checking data normality. Ethical approval will be obtained, informed consent will be secured, and participant confidentiality will be strictly maintained.

High and Low Dose High-intensity Laser Therapy Lateral Epicondylitis

High-intensity laser therapy has gained increasing attention in recent years as a therapeutic modality. It is a non-invasive treatment that can reduce pain, increase local blood circulation, and promote tissue repair. The higher energy output of high-intensity laser therapy also have deeper tissue penetration. Several studies have investigated the effects of high-intensity laser therapy on lateral epicondylitis, and the existing literature indicates that, compared with other treatment modalities, high-intensity laser therapy is more effective in improving pain and quality of life in patients with lateral epicondylitis. However, the dosage, duration, and treatment frequency applied in previous studies vary considerably. The therapeutic effects of high-intensity laser therapy may therefore be influenced by treatment dosage. Consequently, the purpose of this study is to compare the effects of two different dosages of high-intensity laser therapy on patients with lateral epicondylitis.

Ultrasonographic Examination of Other Enthesitis Sites in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis (LE) is the tendinopathy of the common extensor tendon. Although exact etiology remains unclear, it is believed to be caused by overuse. Even though, genetics factor related to tendinopathies were defined accompanying tendinopathies in patients with LE is yet to be studied. Madrid sonographic enthesitis index (MASEI) is an ultrasound based scoring system, developed for the evaluation of the enthesitis. Initially developed for ankylosing spondylitis, its usage has also become widespread in other musculoskeletal diseases. The aim of this study is to calculate the MASEI score in patients diagnosed with LE, and compare it to healthy volunteers.