American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

What conservative measures are appropriate for the treatment of lateral epicondylosis?

1. Rest and NSAIDs

2. Only acupuncture

3. High-dose corticosteroids

4. Physical therapy alone

The correct answer is: Rest and NSAIDs

The appropriate conservative measures for the treatment of lateral epicondylosis, also known as tennis elbow, include rest and the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Resting the affected arm helps reduce strain on the elbow joint and allows time for healing, which is crucial in managing this condition. NSAIDs are effective in alleviating pain and reducing inflammation, which can provide significant relief to patients. While physical therapy can play an important role in rehabilitation, particularly in strengthening the muscles around the elbow and improving flexibility, it is most effective when combined with other conservative treatments like rest and NSAIDs. High-dose corticosteroids are generally not recommended due to potential side effects and lack of long-term benefit for lateral epicondylosis specifically. Acupuncture may offer relief for some patients, but it is not considered a standalone first-line treatment. Thus, the combination of rest and NSAIDs is aligned with the standard of care for managing lateral epicondylosis conservatively.