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International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy logoLink to International Journal of Sports Physical Therapy
. 2025 Jan 1;20(1):137–143. doi: 10.26603/001c.127528

Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasound for the Evaluation of the Lateral Elbow: Implications for Rehabilitation Providers

Robert C Manske ✉, Chris Wolfe, Phil Page, Michael Voight
PMCID: PMC11697989  PMID: 39758701

Abstract

Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) has emerged as a valuable diagnostic tool in the evaluation and management of lateral elbow pathologies. This imaging modality provides high-resolution, dynamic visualization of superficial soft tissue structures, making it particularly advantageous for assessing conditions such as lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow), ligamentous injuries, radial tunnel syndrome, and other common disorders. This article reviews the utility of MSKUS for rehabilitation providers, focusing on its role in accurately identifying pathoanatomical changes, guiding treatment strategies, and monitoring therapeutic outcomes. Specific emphasis is placed on the integration of diagnostic ultrasound in clinical practice, imaging techniques, and its advantages compared to other modalities. By enhancing diagnostic accuracy and facilitating targeted interventions, MSKUS serves as a critical adjunct in the comprehensive care of lateral elbow conditions.

Keywords: Lateral elbow, lateral epicondylitis, radial collateral ligament, diagnostic MSK ultrasound

Introduction

Lateral elbow pain is a frequent complaint in clinical practice, with diverse etiologies that range from overuse injuries to degenerative and inflammatory conditions.1–3 Accurate diagnosis is pivotal to tailoring effective rehabilitation interventions. Musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSKUS) has gained prominence as a diagnostic modality due to its ability to provide real-time, high-resolution imaging of soft tissues, including tendons, ligaments, and nerves, without the radiation exposure inherent in other imaging techniques. This article explores the application of MSKUS in evaluating lateral elbow disorders, focusing on its diagnostic capabilities, procedural benefits, and integration into rehabilitation settings.

Anatomy of the Lateral Elbow

Understanding anatomy is essential for accurate ultrasound evaluation. The lateral elbow comprises several key structures, including:

  • The lateral epicondyle of the humerus, serving as the origin for the common extensor tendon (CET).

  • The radial collateral ligament complex providing lateral stability.

  • The radial head and its articulation with the humerus and ulna.

  • Adjacent neurovascular structures, including the radial nerve.

Benefits of MSK Ultrasound

MSKUS offers several benefits in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of lateral elbow pain.

  • Real-Time Imaging: Compared to other imaging modalities, MSKUS enables dynamic assessment and immediate correlation with clinical findings. Standardized protocols for static4 and dynamic5 elbow assessment are available.

  • High Resolution: MSKUS is excellent for superficial structures like tendons and ligaments, making it an ideal imaging modality for lateral epicondylitis.6

  • Cost-Effective and Accessible: Compared to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), MSKUS is more widely available and affordable. Researchers reported moderate agreement of MSKUS with MRI in detecting tears of the CET.7

  • Guidance for Interventions: MSKUS facilitates precision in procedures such as corticosteroid injections or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.8

Common Pathologies of the Lateral Elbow

MSKUS provides clear visualization of the anatomical details required for precise diagnosis, which is critical for forming appropriate rehabilitation strategies. Several pathologies can cause lateral elbow pain.

  • Lateral Epicondylitis: Characterized by degeneration of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, lateral epicondylitis is the most prevalent cause of lateral elbow pain.9–11 MSKUS can reveal tendon thickening, hypoechoic regions, and neovascularization, providing critical insights into the extent of tendon pathology. Dynamic scanning5 can aid in identifying pain generators.

  • Tendon Tears: MSKUS is adept at identifying partial tendon disruptions and other degenerative changes. Sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of MSKUS in detecting CET tears were reported as 64.5%, 85.2%, and 72.2%, respectively.7

  • Radial Collateral Ligament, or Lateral Ulnar Collateral Ligament Injury (Posterolateral Rotatory Instability)12–14: MSKSUS can identify ligamentous sprains or tears through visualization of discontinuity, thickening, or hypoechoic changes in the ligament. Varus stress testing during ultrasound can confirm functional instability.

  • Radial Tunnel Syndrome15–17: MSKUS aids in the evaluation of compression or irritation of the posterior interosseous nerve, often caused by fibrosis or muscular hypertrophy.

  • Olecranon Bursitis and Synovitis18–20: Fluid accumulation and synovial thickening in bursae can be detected with MSKUS, allowing differentiation between inflammatory and infective processes.

  • Elbow Fractures: Fluid accumulation demonstrating a lipohemarthrosis is children with acute elbow fractures may be seen.21,22 However, poor ultrasound penetration through bone makes it difficult to fully characterize the type of fracture.

Ultrasound Techniques for the Lateral Elbow

MSKUS imaging of the lateral elbow involves proper positioning, probe selection, and protocol selection (see Figures 1–3).

Lateral Elbow: Extensor Mass.

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Figure 1a: Patient Position:

The patient is supine with the elbow in mild flexion to 35-45 degrees. The forearm is pronated. The green box outlines the oblique longitudinal position of transducer.

Figure 1b: Long Axis (LAX) Transducer Placement:

The transducer is in long axis orientation (LAX). Long axis orientation (LAX) at the lateral epicondyle region with slight angulation with beam direction lateral to medial not anterior to posterior.

Figure 1c: Short Axis (SAX) Transducer Placement:

The transducer is in short axis orientation (SAX) and placed in a transverse plane on top of the lateral epicondyle. Starting over the radial head and then sweeping the transducer proximally will provide a good indication of the tendon as it inserts on the lateral epicondyle.

  • Patient Positioning: The patient is seated with the elbow flexed to 90 degrees, the forearm pronated or supinated depending on the target structure, and the hand resting on a flat surface. This position optimizes exposure of the lateral elbow structures.

  • Probe Selection: A high-frequency linear transducer (10-15 MHz) is recommended for optimal resolution.

  • Scanning Protocol:

    • Extensor Tendon Evaluation: Place the transducer longitudinally over the lateral epicondyle to assess the common extensor tendon for hypoechoic areas, calcifications, or tears. Longitudinal and transverse views of the ECRB and extensor digitorum tendons are essential.

    • Radial Collateral Ligament: Scan the lateral joint line in a longitudinal plane, looking for ligament thickening, disruptions, or instability during varus stress testing.

    • Nerves: Trace the posterior interosseous nerve for evidence of entrapment.

    • Dynamic Assessment: Real-time imaging during active or resisted movements aids in diagnosing subtle abnormalities, such as snapping syndromes or dynamic nerve impingement.

Figures 4 and 5 demonstrate lateral elbow pathologies.

PATHOLOGY: Lateral Epicondylitis of Extensor Mass with Calcifications.

PATHOLOGY: Lateral Epicondylitis of Extensor Mass with Calcifications.

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Figure 4a: Long Axis View (LAX) of extensor mass with an indication of tendinopathy and calcifications (blue arrow). The calcifications are visualized as hyperechoic and the common extensor tendon is measured as thickened due to the chronic tendinopathy.

Figure 4b: Short Axis View (SAX) of extensor mass with calcifications seen as hyperechoic (blue arrow).

PATHOLOGY: Lateral Epicondylitis of Extensor Mass.

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Figure 5a/b: Long Axis View (LAX) of thickened common extensor tendon with diffuse heterogeneity and areas of focal hypoechogenicity. The most common findings in a patient with lateral epicondylitis are focal areas of hypoechogenicity.

Clinical Applications in Rehabilitation

MSKUS supports rehabilitation of lateral elbow pain through several methods:

  • Guiding Interventions: MSKUS enhances the precision of dry needling and injection therapies, including corticosteroids or platelet-rich plasma by confirming target localization.

  • Monitoring Progress: Periodic imaging allows for assessment of tendon healing, ligament repair, or resolution of inflammation, supporting adjustments to rehabilitation protocols.

  • Real-Time Feedback: Dynamic ultrasound enables visualization of biomechanical alterations during therapeutic exercises, facilitating biomechanical retraining.

Challenges and Limitations

  • Operator dependence: MSKUS is operator-dependent, necessitating adequate training and experience to achieve optimal diagnostic accuracy.

  • Limited visualization of deep structures: MSKUS is less effective for evaluating deep osseous or joint structures.

  • Artifacts: Improper technique can lead to imaging artifacts, potentially misguiding diagnosis.

Conclusion

MSKUS is an invaluable tool for rehabilitation providers managing lateral elbow conditions. Its ability to deliver high-resolution, real-time imaging facilitates accurate diagnosis, guides therapeutic interventions, and monitors patient progress. As expertise in MSKUS continues to grow, its integration into routine clinical practice promises to enhance the quality and outcomes of care for patients with lateral elbow pathologies. Future research should focus on standardizing ultrasound protocols and further exploring its efficacy in diverse rehabilitation settings.

NORMAL EXTENSOR MASS IN LONG AXIS (LAX).

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Figures 2a/b: The superficial common extensor tendon should be distinguishable from the deeper radial collateral ligament. Depending upon on the individual being scanned, differentiating the radial collateral ligament from the common extensor tendon can be difficult. Normal thickness of the common extensor tendon ranges from 4.41 mm – 5.34 mm.

NORMAL EXTENSOR MASS IN SHORT AXIS (LAX).

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Figures 3a/b: The hyperechoic tendon fibers can be seen in a cylindrical fascicle bordered by the hypoechoic visualization of the extensor musculature.

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