Is There a Relation Between Lateral Epicondylitis and Total Cholesterol Levels?

Area of Science:

• Orthopedics
• Cardiology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Lateral epicondylitis (LE), commonly known as tennis elbow, is a prevalent musculoskeletal condition.
• Elevated total cholesterol (TC) levels are a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases.
• The potential association between metabolic factors like hypercholesterolemia and LE remains under-explored.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between high total cholesterol (TC) levels and the occurrence of lateral epicondylitis (LE).
• To determine if hypercholesterolemia is a risk factor for developing LE.
• To explore correlations between TC levels and clinical manifestations of LE.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective case-control study comparing 289 LE patients (aged 40-55) with 1,077 healthy controls (aged 40-55).
• TC levels and incidence of hypercholesterolemia (TC ≥ 240 mg/dL) were compared between groups.
• Odds ratios for LE associated with hypercholesterolemia were calculated, adjusting for confounders. Correlations with clinical findings were assessed.

Main Results:

• Patients with LE exhibited significantly higher TC levels (205.0 mg/dL) compared to healthy controls (194.6 mg/dL).
• The incidence of hypercholesterolemia was substantially higher in the LE group (16.6%) versus the control group (9.0%).
• Hypercholesterolemia (TC ≥ 240 mg/dL) increased the likelihood of LE by 2.47 times, independent of other factors. TC levels correlated with pain, onset age, and injection frequency.

Conclusions:

• A clinically meaningful difference in TC levels exists between LE patients and healthy individuals.
• Higher incidence of hypercholesterolemia in LE patients suggests a potential link.
• Elevated total cholesterol levels may be associated with an increased risk of developing lateral epicondylitis.