People with tennis elbow needed for a treatment study

Tennis elbow can be a disabling and crippling problem for which a cure has not yet been found.

Researchers at the Department of Physiotherapy of The University of Queensland are currently studying the most effective treatment for tennis elbow.

Volunteers are required to participate in a study in which they may get treatment by physiotherapy, corticosteroid injections and a much recommended wait-and-see approach.

Study coordinator Dr Bill Vicenzino said the research would bring scientists a step closer to finding the cure for tennis elbow.

“Tennis elbow is pain on the outer side of the elbow aggravated by gripping activities and direct pressure,” he said.

“Surprisingly, you don’t even have to play tennis to get it. Unfortunately, this problem can last a long time and in most cases it interferes with people’s ability to perform normal daily activities.”

People aged between 18 and 65 with greater than six weeks duration of pain in one elbow, may be suitable for the study. Participants would be required to come to The Musculoskeletal Pain and Injury Research Unit, Physiotherapy Department, University of Queensland, St. Lucia campus (free parking available) for an assessment of their elbows to determine eligibility.

To participate in the study, contact telephone 07 3365 4587.

Media: For further information contact project supervisor Dr Bill Vicenzino (Senior lecturer) telephone 0409 267 247, email: b.vicenzino@mailbox.uq.edu.au