The Use of Motion Tracking Analysis Program in Detecting Linear Muscular Displacement of the Extensor Digitorum Communis in Patients with Lateral Epicondylalgia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background/Objectives: The pathology underlying Lateral Epicondylalgia (LE) remains debatable. Abnormality in the movements of the Extensor Digitorum Communis (EDC) was amongst the cited sources of pain in LE. Using the Motion Tracking Analysis Program (MTAP), this study compared the amount of linear displacement of the EDC in elbows with and without LE. Methodology: 54 participants with Lateral Epicondylalgia confirmed by replication of lateral elbow pain in either one of the Cozen, Mill or Maudsley’s test were enrolled in the study. A sonologist scanned both elbows of participants using Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSUS). The linear displacement of the EDC shown in the MSUS video was quantified using the Motion Tracking Analysis Program (MTAP). Results: A general trend towards significantly increased linear displacement of EDC in elbows with LE compared to elbows without LE was noted (p=0.06). Based on age, gender, Chronicity of pain, and handedness, no significant differences in the linear displacement of EDC using MTAP were found. Conclusion: Albeit bordering significance (p= 0.06), the increased linear displacement of the extensor digitorum communis reflected its decreased stiffness in elbows with lateral epicondylalgia.