Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive strain on the tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow, leading to pain and reduced grip strength. PRP injections are used to treat this condition by delivering a concentrated portion of your own platelets directly into the affected tendon. This approach aims to support tissue repair and improve tendon structure over time. The injection is typically performed with ultrasound guidance to ensure accurate placement at the site of degeneration. For patients with chronic symptoms, PRP may help reduce pain and improve function as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.

Tennis player holding racket, representing repetitive strain treated with PRP for lateral elbow tendon injuries

Tennis elbow occurs when repetitive strain causes microscopic damage to the extensor tendon that attaches to the lateral epicondyle of the elbow. The tendon most commonly affected is the extensor carpi radialis brevis. Over time, repeated stress can lead to tendon degeneration, disorganized collagen fibers, and reduced blood supply within the tendon tissue. This condition is often described as tendinosis rather than acute inflammation. The weakened tendon may develop small tears and reduced structural strength, which can cause pain during gripping, lifting, or wrist extension. Treatments such as platelet rich plasma aim to stimulate biological repair signals that encourage the formation of stronger collagen fibers within the injured tendon.

A PRP injection for tennis elbow begins with a blood draw of approximately 30 to 60 milliliters from the patient’s arm. The blood is processed in a centrifuge that separates red blood cells from plasma and concentrates platelets within the plasma layer. The resulting platelet rich plasma is placed into a sterile syringe for injection. Most orthopedic physicians use ultrasound guidance to locate the damaged portion of the extensor tendon and guide the needle precisely into the injured tissue. The PRP is injected into the tendon attachment near the lateral epicondyle where degeneration has occurred. The entire procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes in an outpatient clinic setting.

Clinical research has evaluated platelet rich plasma therapy for patients with chronic lateral epicondylitis who have not improved with rest, physical therapy, or anti inflammatory treatments. Several randomized clinical trials have compared PRP injections with corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroids may provide faster short term pain relief, but their benefits often decrease over time. PRP differs because it delivers growth factors that support tendon repair and collagen remodeling. Some studies have reported improved pain scores and grip strength at follow up periods of six to twelve months for patients receiving PRP compared with steroid injections. Treatment outcomes may vary depending on the severity of tendon degeneration and the PRP preparation method used.

Improvement after PRP treatment for tennis elbow is usually gradual rather than immediate. Mild soreness may occur during the first one to two weeks as the biological healing response begins in the tendon. Many patients report improvements in elbow pain and grip strength within four to eight weeks after the injection as collagen remodeling progresses. Clinical studies have observed continued improvement in function for several months following treatment. Physicians often recommend combining PRP therapy with targeted rehabilitation exercises that strengthen the forearm muscles and reduce stress on the injured tendon.

Find doctors offering platelet rich plasma treatment for tennis elbow near you.

This information is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Platelet rich plasma treatments are not FDA approved for all orthopedic uses. Patients should consult a licensed U.S. healthcare professional before pursuing treatment.