Lateral and medial epicondylitis are common in sports and work activit
ies that require repetitive gripping or exert acute forces on the fore
arm. Left untreated, epicondylitis may interfere with daily activities
. Most patients respond to early conservative treatment consisting of
activity modification, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, and rehabil
itation exercises. Approximately 5% of patients will fail conservative
treatment and require surgery. The outcome for most patients followin
g surgery is excellent.