A literature review on the comparative effects of long wave diathermy and conservative physical therapy in the management of medial epicondylitis

Background: Medial epicondylitis, or golfer's elbow, is a common source of elbow pain and functional limitation. While conservative physical therapy (PT) and long-wave diathermy (LWD) are utilized in its management, a direct comparison of their effectiveness is lacking. This study aims to compare the effects of LWD versus a comprehensive conservative PT program on pain, function, and grip strength in patients with medial epicondylitis.

Methods: A randomized controlled trial will be conducted, recruiting patients diagnosed with medial epicondylitis based on standardized clinical criteria. Participants will be randomly allocated to either a LWD group receiving a standardized LWD protocol or a conservative PT group receiving a comprehensive program including therapeutic exercises, manual therapy, and patient education. Primary outcomes will be pain intensity (NPRS), functional capacity (DASH questionnaire), and grip strength (dynamometer), measured at baseline, end of treatment (4 weeks), and follow-up (3 months). Secondary outcomes will include patient-reported global improvement. Data will be analyzed using appropriate statistical methods, including intention-to-treat analysis.

Expected Results: This study anticipates demonstrating the relative effectiveness of LWD and comprehensive conservative PT in improving pain, function, and grip strength in patients with medial epicondylitis. The results will provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians in selecting the optimal treatment approach for this common condition.

Conclusion: The findings of this randomized controlled trial will contribute valuable evidence to the management of medial epicondylitis by directly comparing LWD and comprehensive conservative PT, potentially informing clinical practice and improving patient outcomes.