Comparing exercise therapy with and without braces for elbow pain

Investigation of the Effects of Different Types of Orthoses Used in Addition to Exercise Therapy in Lateral Elbow Tendinopathy

NA · Istanbul University - Cerrahpasa · NCT06735092

This study tests whether using a counterforce brace or a wrist splint along with exercise therapy can help people with elbow pain feel better and improve their strength.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment45 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorIstanbul University - Cerrahpasa (other)
Locations1 site (Istanbul, Buyukcekmece)
Trial IDNCT06735092 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of a forearm counterforce brace and a wrist splint when used alongside exercise therapy for individuals with lateral elbow tendinopathy. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: exercise therapy with a counterforce brace, exercise therapy with a wrist brace, or exercise therapy alone. The study aims to assess pain, functionality, and grip strength over a six-week period, with participants engaging in a structured exercise program. The findings will provide insights into the effectiveness of orthotic devices in conjunction with exercise for treating this condition.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 65 with a diagnosis of unilateral lateral elbow tendinopathy lasting at least three months.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of elbow or wrist trauma, systemic illnesses, or recent physiotherapy for the same condition may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance treatment options for patients suffering from lateral elbow tendinopathy by identifying effective combinations of exercise and orthotic support.

How similar studies have performed: While there is existing literature on exercise therapy for lateral elbow tendinopathy, the specific combination of orthotic devices with exercise therapy in this study is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Being between the ages of 18 and 65,
* Having a diagnosis of unilateral lateral elbow tendinopathy,
* Having at least two of the Thomsen, Maudley's, Mill's, or Cozen's tests positive during clinical examination,
* Experiencing symptoms for at least 3 months,
* Not having a systemic or chronic illness that would prevent participation in the treatment program.

Exclusion Criteria:

* A history of trauma or surgery in the relevant elbow and/or wrist,
* The presence of orthopedic and/or neurological problems in the cervical spine, shoulder joint, or wrist,
* Participation in a physiotherapy and rehabilitation program for lateral elbow tendinopathy within the last 6 months,
* Receiving any injections within the last 6 months,
* Systemic inflammation.

Where this trial is running

Istanbul, Buyukcekmece

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Lateral Epicondylitis, Exercise Therapy, Rehabilitation, Orthotic Devices, Pain, Tendinopathy

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.