Date of Award

1994

Document Type

Scholarly Project

Degree Name

Master of Physical Therapy (MPT)

Department

Physical Therapy

First Advisor

Beverly Johnson

Keywords

Tennis Elbow -- therapy; Electric Stimulation

Abstract

Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (MENS) is a modality that is quickly gaining popularity in the treatment of various musculoskeletal disorders. At this time, there is a lack of literature, especially well controlled clinical studies, to support its use. The purpose of this study, therefore, is to examine the effects of MENS in the treatment of a common musculoskeletal dysfunction, lateral epicondylitis. Approximately ten subjects with a diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis were assigned either to group A, receiving MENS and conservative treatment (education, home exercise program, ice, and counterforce bracing), or group B, receiving sham MENS and conservative treatment. Subjects were seen for three initial consecutive daily visits, and then for three every other day visits. Data were recorded and analyzed regarding strength (grip strength and isometric wrist extension strength) and pain with strength measurements. No significant differences in these variables were found to exist between the groups, indicating that MENS provided no greater relief than placebo treatment.

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