Simple lateral release in treatment of tennis elbow

The records of 340 patients with a clinical diagnosis of tennis elbow were surveyed and the results of conservative treatment assessed. Of 157 patients successfully treated by local steroid injections, 92% achieved their good result after one or two injections. Repeated injections were not helpful. Simple lateral release of the common extensor origin was carried out on 42 elbows in 37 patients. Thirty-seven elbows in 32 patients were personally reviewed. Satisfactory pain relief was achieved in 33 elbows (89%). There were no significant complications.