Physician Written Contributions
Tennis Elbow/Lateral Epicondylitis
The two above terms apply to a wide spectrum of pain patterns about the lateral elbow emanating from the origins of wrist and/or digital extensors. The term "lawn tennis elbow" dates from the British Medical Journal, 1883. This term is a misnomer, as most of the patients we see with this affliction are non-athletes. This the term "lateral epicondylitis" is frequently used. This term has its limitation as well. The lateral epicondyle is bone, and lateral epicondylitis is an affliction of tendon. Further, histologic analysis of involved soft tissues may reveal degenerative micro or macro tears and no inflammation at all (Cyriax, JBJS, 1936). Thus, there may be no "itis" is "Lateral Epicondylitis". It's really a "tendinosis". So much for semantics. Read more.
Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injuries - A Surgeon's Perspective
by Carlton Clinkscales, M.D.
Thumb ulnar collateral ligament injuries range from minor sprains to a complete rupture of the ligament. They occur in sports, at work and even at home. The mechanism of injury is a radial directed force. Radiographs should be obtained to rule out fracture or other injuries. A grade I injur is a minor sprain without joint laxity. There is no loss of integrity of the ligament. Grade II injuries are more substantial. The ligament is stretched but not completely torn. There may be some laxity to the joint, but a solid endpoint. Grade I and II injuries should be immobilized in a cast or splint for 3 to 6 weeks followed by gentle progressive range of motion and strengthening exercises. Read more.
Dupuytren's Disease
By Eric Britton, M.D.Although not the first to describe Dupuytren's disease, Baron Guillame Dupuytren is appropriately credited with exhibiting a palmar fasciotomy to medical students in 1831. Since that time the term "Dupuytren's disease" is used to describe progressive thickening and contracture of the fascial tissues in the palm. Patients first notice a painless nodule or thin cord in the palm, generally at the base of the small or ring fingers. With time the abnormal tissue increases in size and the cords draw the fingers into a contracted posture. Read more.
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