Two Physical Therapy Techniques for Tennis Elbow Relief

Plain-English translation of NCT06965985 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated May 2025 · Translation generated August 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

This trial is testing whether two different hands-on physical therapy approaches—called Mulligan mobilization and myofascial release—can help reduce pain and improve function in people with tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). You'll be randomly assigned to receive one of these therapies, or to do guided exercises at home, over four weeks. The researchers will measure your pain and arm function before treatment, right after you finish, and one month later.

Tennis elbow causes pain on the outside of the elbow and can make everyday activities like gripping difficult. While several treatment options exist, doctors want to know which hands-on therapy technique works best to relieve pain and get people back to normal activities.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are between 18 and 65 years old
you have been diagnosed with tennis elbow on one arm based on physical exam findings
you have experienced elbow pain for at least three months
you can read and understand the study information and provide written consent

You likely don't qualify if…

you have had an injection, surgery, or physical therapy in your elbow within the past 6 months
you have other elbow problems, neck pain radiating down your arm, shoulder issues, or previous elbow fractures
you are currently taking blood-thinning medications or have bleeding disorders
you have uncontrolled diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or other serious medical conditions
you have rheumatologic diseases like fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis

What participation looks like

You will visit the clinic three times per week for four weeks (12 visits total). Depending on which group you're randomly assigned to, you'll either receive one of the two hands-on therapy techniques from a physical therapist, or you'll learn and practice exercises at home. The therapist will evaluate your pain and arm function before starting, right after the four-week treatment period ends, and again one month later. The entire study lasts about five weeks.

AI-generated summary from trial data · Aug 20, 2026 · Not medical advice

Two Physical Therapy Techniques for Tennis Elbow Relief

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations