Which test is commonly used to diagnose lateral epicondylitis?

Which test is commonly used to diagnose lateral epicondylitis?

• A. Finkelstein test
• B. Phalen's test
• C. Cozen's test
• D. Tinels sign

Answer: (C)

Lateral epicondylitis is an overuse injury of the extensor tendons at the elbow, especially the extensor carpi radialis brevis, causing pain with gripping and wrist extension. Cozen's test specifically stresses that tendon: the forearm is pronated and the patient attempts to extend the wrist against resistance. Reproducing pain at the lateral epicondyle supports the diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis, which is why this test is commonly used. In contrast, Finkelstein's test checks De Quervain's tenosynovitis, while Phalen's sign and Tinels sign assess carpal tunnel syndrome, not elbow tendinopathy.

Lateral epicondylitis is an overuse injury of the extensor tendons at the elbow, especially the extensor carpi radialis brevis, causing pain with gripping and wrist extension. Cozen's test specifically stresses that tendon: the forearm is pronated and the patient attempts to extend the wrist against resistance. Reproducing pain at the lateral epicondyle supports the diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis, which is why this test is commonly used. In contrast, Finkelstein's test checks De Quervain's tenosynovitis, while Phalen's sign and Tinels sign assess carpal tunnel syndrome, not elbow tendinopathy.