Which test is commonly used to evaluate lateral epicondylitis?

• A. Cozen's test
• B. Golfer's Elbow Test
• C. Tinel's sign (elbow)
• D. Pinch Grip Test

Answer: (A)

Lateral epicondylitis is a tendinous overuse issue at the outer elbow, mainly involving the extensor carpi radialis brevis origin. Cozen’s test works by loading the wrist extensors, especially the ECRB, through resisted wrist extension with the elbow straight and the forearm pronated. If this action reproduces the patient’s typical lateral elbow pain, it strongly supports lateral epicondylitis because it directly stresses the implicated tendon origin. The other options target different conditions: the Golfer’s Elbow Test assesses medial elbow tendinopathy, Tinel’s sign at the elbow looks for ulnar nerve irritation, and the Pinch Grip Test checks nerve integrity rather than tendon origin at the elbow. So, Cozen’s test is the best choice because it specifically provokes the tender, overused lateral extensor tendon.