Ann Porretto-Loehrke, PT, DPT, CHT, COMT, CMTPT, a leading expert in upper extremity rehab, joins host Phil Plisky to rethink what we really know about lateral elbow pain. Together, we dig into the clinical clues that help you distinguish between tendon, joint, and nerve involvement—and what to do when it’s not just a tendinopathy. You’ll hear how recent evidence and real world case examples can reshape your eval and treatment approach. Join us for a fresh look at a common diagnosis that isn’t always what it seems.

Learning Objectives

• Analyze the evidence around anatomical structures that can contribute to lateral elbow pain and dysfunction in daily activities

• Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address tendinopathy, articular involvement, and radial nerve issues

• Solve patient case scenarios involving patients who present with significant pain and a history of multiple corticosteroid injections

Timestamps

• (00:00:00) Welcome
• (00:00:28) Introduction to lateral elbow pain
• (00:01:27) Understanding the complexity of lateral elbow pain
• (00:03:45) Anatomy of the elbow and its implications
• (00:09:19) Evaluating lateral elbow pain: tests and techniques
• (00:14:28) Treatment approaches for tendon issues
• (00:23:14) Differentiating between tendon and joint issues
• (00:27:03) Diagnostic strategies for elbow pain
• (00:30:45) Understanding joint and tendon interactions
• (00:34:54) Comprehensive treatment approaches
• (00:37:37) The importance of core stability
• (00:40:31) Exploring nerve involvement in elbow pain
• (00:45:30) Key takeaways for effective treatment

Resources Mentioned in Episode

• SALT Test Video
• PEPPER Test Video
• Pull Test Video

Rehab and Performance Lab is brought to you by Medbridge. If you’d like to earn continuing education credit for listening to this episode and access bonus takeaway handouts, log in to your Medbridge account and navigate to the course where you’ll find accreditation details. If applicable, complete the post-course assessment and survey to be eligible for credit. The takeaway handout on Medbridge gives you the key points mentioned in this episode, along with additional resources you can implement into your practice right away.

To hear more episodes of Rehab and Performance Lab, visit ⁠https://www.medbridge.com/rehab-and-performance-lab⁠

If you’d like to subscribe to Medbridge, visit ⁠https://www.medbridge.com/pricing/