ESWT vs. LLLT for tennis elbow: a comparison in adults
Official title: Effects of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy Versus Low-Level Laser Therapy on Ultrasonographic Tendon Thickness and Clinical Outcomes in Patients With Lateral Epicondylitis
Run by Hitit University · NCT07564713 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) or low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is more effective for reducing elbow pain and improving function in adults with lateral epicondylitis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Hitit University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Çorum) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | May 4, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 29, 2026 |
| Study ends | September 29, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 16, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07564713 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18-65 with clinically diagnosed lateral epicondylitis of at least six weeks’ duration.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recent elbow injections, prior elbow surgery, inflammatory or systemic diseases, pregnancy, or other major comorbidities may have limited or no benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This is a prospective, randomized, single-blind clinical trial conducted at Hitit University to compare ESWT and LLLT in adults aged 18-65 with lateral epicondylitis for at least six weeks. Participants are randomized to receive either ESWT or LLLT using standardized treatment protocols, with outcome assessors blinded to group assignment. The trial will evaluate changes in pain, elbow function, quality of life, grip strength, and ultrasound measurements of the tendon (thickness and echogenicity). Primary outcomes focus on pain and function; secondary outcomes include tendon structure and patient-reported quality of life. Enrollment is limited to those without prior elbow surgery or recent injections, among other criteria, to minimize confounding factors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the study could clarify which noninvasive therapy offers better symptom relief and tendon healing for tennis elbow.
How similar studies have gone: Existing data show benefits for both ESWT and LLLT, but direct head-to-head comparisons with tendon-structure outcomes are limited.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis based on physical examination findings * Symptom duration of at least 6 weeks * Presence of lateral elbow pain aggravated by wrist extension and/or gripping activities * Ability to understand and comply with study procedures * Provision of written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Previous surgery involving the affected elbow * History of corticosteroid or other injection therapy to the affected elbow within the last 6 months * Presence of inflammatory rheumatic diseases (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis) * Neurological disorders affecting the upper extremity * Systemic inflammatory or metabolic diseases that may affect tendon structure or healing * Cervical radiculopathy or other causes of referred upper extremity pain * Pregnancy or breastfeeding * Use of anticoagulant therapy or bleeding disorders * Severe comorbid conditions that may interfere with participation
Where it's running
-
Hitit University Erol Olçok Research Hospital Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Clinic
Çorum, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Pınar Başaran, Dr — Hitit University
- Study coordinator: Pınar Başaran, Dr
- Email: pinarozge@yahoo.com
- Phone: 00903642230300
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.