In short, yes, platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy can alleviate tennis elbow pain by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.
- Natural healing. PRP uses your own blood cells to accelerate the repair of injured tendons.
- Long-term relief. Clinical studies indicate that PRP offers more durable pain relief.
- Minimally invasive. The procedure is quick, performed in the office, and requires very little recovery time.
Many patients find that conservative treatments like rest and ice do not provide lasting relief. Using PRP for tennis elbow has become a popular topic among patients seeking relief from chronic arm pain. This regenerative treatment offers hope for those struggling with simple daily tasks.
Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, can make lifting a coffee cup or turning a doorknob agonizing. It is an overuse injury that causes inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons attached to the elbow.
When physical therapy and medication fail, surgery is not the only remaining option. PRP therapy bridges the gap between conservative care and surgical intervention.
What Is Tennis Elbow and Why Does It Develop?
Tennis elbow is a condition caused by repetitive motion of the wrist and arm. Despite the name, you do not have to be an athlete to suffer from it.
Pain occurs on the outside of the elbow where the tendons of your forearm muscles attach to a bony bump. This area is known as the lateral epicondyle.
Activities such as painting, typing, or using plumbing tools can strain these tendons over time. The tissue develops microscopic tears that the body struggles to repair on its own.
How Does PRP for Tennis Elbow Work?
Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy utilizes the healing power of your own blood. Your blood consists of plasma, red cells, white cells, and platelets.
Platelets are well known for their role in clotting blood. However, they also contain hundreds of growth factors that are critical for healing injuries.
During PRP treatment, a provider draws a small amount of your blood. They place this blood into a centrifuge machine.
The machine spins rapidly to separate the platelets from the other blood components. This process creates a concentration of platelets that is five to ten times richer than normal blood.
The provider then injects this platelet-rich solution directly into the damaged tendon. This injection delivers a high dose of growth factors to the injury site. These growth factors recruit reparative cells and signal the body to repair the damaged tissue.
Is PRP for Tennis Elbow Effective?
Many patients ask if there is scientific evidence supporting this treatment. Several studies confirm the efficacy of PRP for tennis elbow for long-term pain relief.
A pivotal study compared PRP injections to corticosteroid injections. The researchers found that platelet-rich plasma injections offer superior pain control compared to corticosteroids in the same timeframe.
It is important to note that results are not immediate. Because the treatment relies on biological healing, improvement usually occurs over several weeks.
What Can I Expect During the Procedure?
The appointment for PRP for tennis elbow usually takes less than an hour. It is an outpatient procedure performed right in the office.
First, a nurse or phlebotomist will draw blood from a vein in your arm. This is similar to a standard blood test.
While the blood spins in the centrifuge, the provider will cleanse and numb your elbow area. Local anesthesia ensures the injection is as comfortable as possible.
Once the PRP is prepared, the provider injects it into the precise area of tendon damage. They may use ultrasound guidance to ensure accuracy.
You will typically remain in the office for a short observation period. Afterward, you are free to go home.
What Is the Recovery Time After PRP Therapy?
Recovery following PRP for tennis elbow is relatively simple. However, you must follow specific post-procedure instructions to maximize results.
You might experience soreness or swelling at the injection site for a few days. This inflammation is a normal part of the healing process.
It is crucial that you avoid anti-inflammatory medications immediately after the procedure. Drugs like ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) can inhibit platelet function.
Most patients can return to light daily activities immediately. You should avoid heavy lifting or repetitive gripping for a few weeks to allow the tendon to heal.
Physical therapy often begins a few weeks after the injection. This helps to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility as the tendon repairs itself.
Am I a Good Candidate for PRP Therapy?
Not everyone with elbow pain needs PRP. It is generally reserved for chronic cases.
You may be a candidate for PRP for tennis elbow if you have had pain for three months or longer. It is ideal for patients who want to avoid surgery.
Candidates should generally be in good health. Certain blood disorders or active infections may disqualify you from treatment.
If you have tried bracing, rest, and physical therapy without success, PRP could be the next logical step. It offers a low-risk alternative with high potential for recovery.
FAQs About PRP for Tennis Elbow
Are PRP Injections Painful?
Most patients report mild discomfort during the injection. The use of a local anesthetic helps manage this effectively. You may feel soreness for a few days afterward.
How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Many patients experience significant relief after just one PRP injection. Some individuals with severe chronic pain may require a second or third treatment.
Is PRP Covered by Insurance?
Insurance coverage for PRP varies by provider and plan. Because it is often considered an elective or experimental procedure by some payers, you should check with your insurance company.
Can I Drive Myself Home After the Procedure?
Yes, most patients can drive themselves home. Since you only receive local anesthesia, you will remain awake and alert.
PRP for Tennis Elbow in Miami Lakes, FL
Do not let chronic pain limit your lifestyle any longer. If you are interested in PRP for tennis elbow and want to see if it is right for you, we can help.
At the Orthopaedic Hand and Arm Center, we specialize in advanced solutions for upper extremity conditions. We are committed to providing personalized care that gets you back to the activities you love.
Please call our office at (954) 635-5300 or use our secure online appointment request form to schedule your evaluation today.
