Can Low Intensity Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction be used for the Management of Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy?

Abstract

Lateral elbow tendinopathy (LET) commonly referred to as tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis is one of the two most common tendinopathies of the upper extremity among athletes and non-athletes. Although the diagnosis of LET is simple, the ideal management for the rehabilitation of LET does not exist. A conservative approach is advocated by many physicians. Therefore, physical therapy is usually recommended. A plethora of physiotherapy modalities has been recommended for the management of LET such as heavy-slow resistance exercise, manual techniques, physical agents, external support and soft tissue manipulation. Such a plethora of techniques suggests that the ideal management strategy is unknown, and further research is required to find the most effective treatment strategy in LET patients.