Development of a clinical pathway for treatment of lateral epicondylitis in the occupational setting

As a result of the human and economic toll associated with musculoskeletal disorders in the workplace, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) declared occupational musculoskeletal disorders to be one of the 10 priority work related conditions (Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, 1983).

The push for effectiveness and efficiency in health care has created a need to pursue models of care delivery that focus on outcomes, decrease utilization of clinical resources and promote patient satisfaction. Clinical pathways reflect accumulated knowledge from many disciplines, decrease variations in treatment, promote optimal outcomes and are cost effective.

This project is to develop a clinical pathway to guide the practitioner in the management of lateral epicondylitis in the work setting. The clinical pathway is utilized to address the assessment and treatment of the patient. It serves as a tool to communicate with other health care providers, case managers, employers, and insurance carriers. The pathway is outcome oriented. The goal is to return the employee to regular duty work status, pain free.