A comparative prospective study of platelet rich plasma vs corticosteroid injection in lateral epicondylitis-research article

Abstract

Introduction: Lateral epicondylitis, commonly referred to as ‘tennis elbow’ is seen to affect 1% to 3% of the general population in the 3rd and 4th decade of life. Treatment modalities for the treatment of lateral epicondylitis include analgesics and immobilisation. 90% of cases resolve spontaneously within 6- 12 months.Materials and Methods: Prospective comparative study performed at department of orthopaedics in Dr PMR institute of Medical Sciences from September 2023 to November 2024, 20 patients (12 females and 8 males) were included in the study after explaining the procedure with consent.Results: We included 20 patients in this study, 12 were females and 8 were males with chronic pain at elbow for more than 3 months not responding to 6 weeks of conservative management. Patient follow up was done at fourth, eighth and twelfth week of post injection. Mean VAS & DASH pre injection score average for platelet rich plasma group was 66.6 & 56.4 respectively while 36.5 & 29.1 at the end of one year treatment. Mean VAS & DASH pre injection score average for steroid group was 65.5 & 55.2 respectively while 37.8 & 34.0 at the end of one year treatment.Conclusion: A single injection of autologous platelet rich plasma improves elbow pain and functional activities more effectively than corticosteroid injection in lateral epicondylitis.