Lateral epicondylitis is one of the most commonly treated conditions in a primary care sports medicine clinic.
Lateral epicondylitis is one of the most commonly treated conditions in a primary care sports medicine clinic. Patient’s typically complain of lateral elbow pain that is worse with activity. Certain activities like holding a jug of milk or turning over their hand are likely to worsen the pain.
Fortunately, we have multiple treatment modalities to offer them. First line typically includes a period of activity modification and physical therapy with focus on eccentric strengthening the cornerstone of treatment and prevention. Physicians may also offer palpation guided lateral epicondyle injections to patients with acute lateral epicondylitis.
Patients tend to have immediate relief with corticosteroid injections but the injection lacks long term benefit. Illustration of lateral epicondylitis However, over the last couple of years multiple other treatment modalities have emerged. These include needle tenotomy under ultrasound guidance and platelet rich plasma injections.
This review is going to look at the role of platelet rich plasma for the treatment of lateral epicondylosis. Illustration of lateral epicondylitis injection The theory behind using platelet rich plasma for lateral epicondylosis is delivering a large amount of growth factors to an area of tendon that is marred by necrosis, neovascularization, and inflammation. One difficulty we had when looking at data with PRP injections was the lack of uniformity in processing the PRP. Currently there are multiple different kits that can be used to process PRP and they all provide different numbers of platelets and white blood cells. A meta analysis published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine attempted to look at the role of PRP in tendinopathy.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to platelet rich plasma (prp) and lateral epicondylitis, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
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