A Prospective Randomized Controlled Study Comparing the Efficacy of Platelet Rich Plasma Injection versus Steroid...

Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis is a degenerative condition of the common extensor origin of the lateral humeral epicondyle. This study compared the therapeutic effects of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and corticosteroid injections for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

In this prospective, randomized trial, 100 patients with lateral epicondylitis were assigned to either PRP injection (PRPI) (n = 50) or steroid injection (SI) (n = 50). Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 1, 3, 6 months, and 1 year using the patient-rated tennis elbow evaluation (PRTEE) and disabilities of the arm, shoulder and hand (DASH) questionnaires, evaluating pain, function and disability.

The groups' baseline scores were similar. SI significantly improved PRTEE scores at 1 month, demonstrating superior short-term pain alleviation. At 6 months, however, PRPI showed noticeably improved results, with lower PRTEE and DASH scores signifying better pain reduction and functional recovery. There were no discernible changes between the groups at 3 months or a year. While both treatments had similar results at the last follow-up, PRPI generally demonstrated a trend toward better maintained long-term improvement.

SIs deliver rapid but temporary symptom relief, while platelet-rich plasma injections yield greater sustained improvements at intermediate to long-term follow-up for lateral epicondylitis. For long-term symptom management and functional rehabilitation, PRPI might be a better choice.