PRP injections can be effective in treating tennis elbow. PRP stands for platelet-rich plasma. This involves taking some blood from your arm and putting it into a machine called a centrifuge for up to 15 minutes. This machine spins very fast and separates the liquid part of blood (the plasma) from the different types of cells in your bloodstream. Special cells called platelets are then extracted from this mixture and injected around the painful area in your tendon. These platelets contain important proteins that stimulate healing and are thought to kick-start the healing process.
The procedure takes around 30 minutes in total, after which a simple dressing is applied and you are allowed to return home.
How successful are PRP injections?
Around 80% of people notice an improvement in their pain over 3-6 months. There is some controversy amongst surgeons about whether PRP injections work, or whether it is just the passage of time that allows the pain to improve. However, as a fairly inexpensive and safe treatment, it is a reasonable option to try.
Even after successful treatment, most people still notice a tender spot on the bone which does not fully resolve.
What should I do after a PRP injection?
It is important to rest your elbow for a few weeks after the injection and avoid anti-inflammatory drugs for 4 weeks to allow the healing process to start.
It can take up to 3 months to improve after this injection, and it is important to continue with the physiotherapy during this period. At least 50% of people notice a marked improvement, although many still have a tender spot on the bone which does not fully resolve.
How long will the injection work for?
If you get a good result from the injection, it is likely to last a long time. However, if you are in an occupation that makes you prone to tennis elbow, it can come back again. If you get partial relief, you may be offered a second booster injection which can lead to further improvements.
If you do not have a good result from a PRP injection, you may be offered surgery, in the form of a tennis elbow release.