Tendinitis and tendinosis of the elbow, wrist, and hands

Tendinopathy in the upper extremity continues to be a source of morbidity and disability in the working population despite a benign clinical course. Risk factors include high force, repetition, and awkward positions. An understanding of the pertinent anatomy and pathophysiology should help clinicians in the management of these conditions. Tension overload and shear stress are the two mechanisms most likely responsible for most upper extremity tendinopathies. Clinical presentation includes localized pain and tenderness. Most treatment options have yet to undergo evaluation for efficacy in well-designed clinical trials, yet there is a generally favorable response to nonoperative or conservative management. Cases resistant to conservative treatment may require surgical intervention.