Abstract:

Objective: Lateral Epicondylitis (LE) can cause dysfunction in different regions besides the forearm. The aim of this study was to evaluate cervical region such as muscle strength and endurance in LE patients and to compare them with healthy controls. Material and Methods: A total of 60 individuals with LE (Study Group; N: 30) and healthy individuals (Control Group; N: 30) were included in the study. All the participants were evaluated in terms of cervical pain severity (VAS), neck disability level (NDI), deep cervical flexor muscle strength (Stabilizer Pressure Biofeedback), cervical muscle endurance (Endurance Tests, sec.), and hand grip strength (hydraulic hand dynamometer). Results: It was determined that the strength of the deep cervical flexor muscles in the cervical region (p<0.05) and the endurance of the cervical extensor muscles were decreased in LE patients compared to the control group (p<0.001). On the other hand, the severity of pain (p<0.01) and level of neck disability in the study group individuals were higher than those in the control group (p<0.01). Conclusion: The results of this study showed that LE increased pain intensity, decreased neck function, cervical muscle strength and endurance. Therefore, we think that the cervical muscles of individuals with LE should be evaluated and included in the treatment program when necessary.

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