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Systematic review: Use of the brace in lateral epicondylalgia

Abstract:

Lateral epicondylalgia is a fairly common clinical problem that affects both athletes and subjects performing manual tasks. Recently, the use of brace has become a routine indication in the therapeutic management of these patients. A synthesis of the evidence has been made through a systematic review of randomized controlled clinical trials. Objetive: To determine whether there is scientific evidence that support the use of the brace in patients with lateral epicondylalgia. Search strategy: Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) were included in the search. The databases used were MEDLINE, CINAHL, Central, EMBASE, PEDro, and LILACS. Results: 5 articles were selected that met our eligibility criteria. Conclusion: There is moderate evidence that the short-term brace improves the performance of activities of daily living compared with a physical therapy program and the severity of pain compared with Laser and Ultrasound. When compared with a wrist splint, MP of pain at Week 6 was 0.24 (-0.07, 0.55). Thus, there is no difference between the two interventions. © 2011 Asociación Española de Fisioterapeutas.