Diamond McConnells' Taping Technique versus Counterforce Elbow Orthosis in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis: a Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Introduction: Lateral epicondylitis, commonly referred to as tennis elbow, is one of the most common lesions of the arm. There are many treatment options available for tennis elbow; taping techniques and splints are commonly used. Purpose: The objective of this research is to compare the impact of the diamond taping technique and counterforce elbow bands on pain and handgrip strength in patients with lateral epicondylitis. Materials and methods: Forty male patients with lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), aged between 30 and 40 years, took part in this study. They were randomly assigned to one of two equivalent groups. Group A received the diamond taping intervention in addition to physical therapy, while group B was treated using an elbow band orthosis along with physical therapy. The JAMAR dynamometer and Visual Analog Scale (VAS) were used to assess handgrip strength and pain intensity respectively, before and following 4 weeks (12 sessions) of treatment. Results: Group A demonstrated significant improvement of both handgrip strength and pain intensity, while group B showed significant improvement of pain only. Conclusion: Diamond taping demonstrated a strong impact upon pain and handgrip strength in individuals with lateral epicondylitis. It is suggested that the diamond taping technique can be valuable in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Keywords

• counterforce elbow orthosis
• diamond taping
• visual analog scale
• lateral epicondylitis
• Jamar hand held dynamometer
• pain intensity