What is the diagnosis for a patient experiencing tender lateral epicondyle pain with gripping and wrist extension?

The diagnosis of lateral epicondylitis is supported by the combination of tender lateral epicondyle pain, especially with activities involving gripping and wrist extension. Lateral epicondylitis, often referred to as "tennis elbow," is typically characterized by inflammation or degeneration of the extensor tendons, particularly the extensor carpi radialis brevis, at their origin on the lateral epicondyle of the humerus.

The pain experienced in lateral epicondylitis is usually exacerbated by activities that involve repetitive wrist extension or gripping, which aligns with the symptoms described in the question. Patients often report increased discomfort when performing tasks such as lifting objects, turning a wrench, or even shaking hands, due to the strain on the affected tendons.

In contrast, a rotator cuff injury primarily affects the shoulder and would present with shoulder pain and difficulties with arm elevation rather than specific lateral elbow discomfort. Medial epicondylitis, commonly known as "golfer's elbow," involves the tendons on the inner side of the elbow and is not associated with lateral elbow pain. Carpal tunnel syndrome is characterized by numbness or tingling in the hand and wrist due to median nerve compression, often accompanied by symptoms of weakness in thumb opposition, rather