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Evidence checklist

Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow)

DC 502438 CFR § 4.71aMusculoskeletal

Evidence strength

Mark what you already have below and your evidence strength appears here.

Target
Saved locally
01

Specialist opinion

Highest value0 of 2 collected
Orthopedic or sports medicine evaluation with lateral epicondyle examinationCritical

Examination documenting tenderness at the lateral epicondyle/common extensor origin, positive Cozen's test, Mill's test, and grip strength measurement. Elbow range of motion in degrees should also be documented.

Private provider · independent opinion
Nexus opinion linking lateral epicondylitis to service ("at least as likely as not")Critical

A medical opinion connecting your tennis elbow to repetitive military occupational duties (gripping tools, weapons maintenance, typing, heavy lifting) or a specific in-service elbow injury.

Private provider · independent opinion
02

Treatment records

0 of 3 collected
MRI or diagnostic ultrasound of lateral epicondyle

MRI showing common extensor tendon pathology (tendinosis, partial or complete tear) at the lateral epicondyle. Ultrasound can show tendon thickening, hypoechoic changes, or neovascularization.

VA or private records · written request
Documentation of dominant vs. non-dominant arm

Medical records specifying which elbow is affected and which arm is dominant. The major extremity receives a higher rating.

VA or private records · written request
Treatment records (physical therapy, bracing, corticosteroid or PRP injections, surgery)

Records documenting counterforce bracing, eccentric wrist extensor strengthening, corticosteroid injections, PRP injections, extracorporeal shock wave therapy, and any surgical release.

VA or private records · written request
03

Lay statements

0 of 2 collected
Buddy statement from spouse, family, or fellow service member

A written statement from someone who can describe observable symptoms and how your condition affects daily life.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
Personal statement describing symptoms and functional impact

Your own written account of how this condition affects your daily activities, work, and relationships. Describe your worst days.

You or a witness · VA Form 21-4138 or 21-10210How to get this →
04

Benefits questionnaire

0 of 1 collected
Completed DBQ Elbow and Forearm ConditionsCritical

Standardized form capturing elbow range of motion, tendon findings, grip strength, and functional limitations.

Provider-completed · VA DBQ formHow to get this →
05

Service records

0 of 1 collected
Service treatment records (STRs)Critical

Military medical records showing in-service treatment, complaints, or injuries related to this condition.

NPRC / milConnect · SF-180
Condition guideRating criteria and what VA looks forC&P exam prepWhat the examiner will askBuddy statement builderGuided VA Form 21-10210

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