Comparison of short-term effects of deep transverse friction massage and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis

Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to determine and compare (a) the short-term effects of deep transverse friction massage (DTFM) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) on pain, grip strength, function in patients with lateral epicondylitis (LE) and (b) the costs of both treatment modalities.

Materials and Methods: A total of 52 patients (39 females, 13 males) with LE were randomly divided into two groups: DTFM group (n=25) and ESWT group (n=27). Six sessions of DTFM was applied for the patients in DTFM group twice a week. Three sessions of ESWT was applied for the patients in the other group once a week. Pre- and post-treatment pain severity, pain threshold, grip strength, and functional status of the patients were assessed by the Mayo Elbow Performance Index (MEPI) and Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH-T) questionnaire.

Results: In both groups, a significant decrease was observed in pain at rest and during activity, DASH-T and there was a significant increase in the pain threshold, grip strength and MEPI scores after the treatment. However, DTFM was found to be more effective than ESWT in terms of reducing pain during activity and improving functionality. The treatment costs were found to be TRY 69.60 for DTFM and TRY 124.0 for ESWT.

Conclusion: DTFM, which can be easily applied by a physiotherapist, does not require expensive devices or equipment and is less costly, can be used as an effective method in the treatment of patients with LE.