Elbow Health: Managing Elbow Tendinopathies with Dr Chris Conyard

In this episode of The Good GP, host Dr Anna Mullins welcomes back Dr Chris Conyard, an upper limb surgeon based in Brisbane, to discuss elbow tendinopathies. He shares his expertise on the natural history of elbow tendinopathies, their examination, and effective management strategies.

They begin with an overview of elbow tendinopathies, including their prevalence, clinical presentation, and challenges associated with treatment. Dr Conyard highlights the importance of rest and specific eccentric loading exercises in rehabilitation and explains the typical clinical course.

Delving into the physical examination of the elbow, touching on specific tests such as Cozen's test to diagnose tennis elbow and techniques for identifying golfer's elbow. They discuss the relevance of imaging in diagnosis, specifically when it should be considered, particularly in cases of suspected arthritis or when initial management fails.

Dr Conyard also provides valuable insights into non-operative management, including the use of topical NSAIDs, physiotherapy, and braces. He advises caution against steroid injections and suggests PRP injections as a potential second-line treatment. Concluding with advice on when to refer patients to specialists and the utility of specific imaging and nerve conduction studies.

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