Comparison of the Efficacy of Mesotherapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis: A Prospective Randomised Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the effectiveness of mesotherapy compared to extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in treating patients with lateral epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow. This randomized-controlled, single-blind study includes patients aged 18 to 65 years who have experienced elbow pain for at least six weeks. The study aims to determine whether mesotherapy is as effective as ESWT in relieving pain and improving function in this condition. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. Group 1 will receive mesotherapy injections consisting of lidocaine, pentoxifylline, thiocolchicoside, and meloxicam delivered intradermally using a fine needle at painful elbow points, with five sessions given once weekly. Group 2 will receive five weekly sessions of ESWT applied to the lateral epicondyle area with specified frequency, energy density, and pulse count. All participants are advised to use resting wrist splints and perform exercises. During the trial, participants will be assessed before treatment, 30 minutes after treatment completion, and again 12 weeks later. Evaluations include pain severity using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), functional impairment via the Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation, and quality of life through the SF-12 Health Survey. Additional measurements include pressure-pain threshold and grip strength. Demographic and clinical data will be recorded, and safety and treatment effects will be monitored throughout the study duration.

Comparison of the Efficacy of Mesotherapy and Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis