The diagnosis of epicondylitis humeri is made on the basis of clinical symptoms and physical examination. Imaging techniques are only exclusionary. Optional medical device diagnostics-depending on the results of the history, physical examination, laboratory diagnostics, and obligatory medical device diagnostics-are used for differential diagnosis.
- Sonography (ultrasound examination) of the affected joint – to visualize swelling at the muscle insertion; follow-up examination to assess the success of therapy.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; computer-assisted cross-sectional imaging method (using magnetic fields, i.e., without X-rays); particularly well suited for visualizing soft tissue injuries) of the affected joint – if rupture (tear) is suspected; for visualizing swelling at the muscle insertion or in the case of chronic epicondylopathia humeri (> 6 months)Note: If possible, the MRI should be performed under extension and supination (outward rotation of the hand) of the elbow joint.
- Electromyography (EMG; measurement of electrical muscle activity)/NLG (measurement of nerve conduction velocity)-if a referred or peripheral neurogenic lesion is suspected.
