Lateral Epicondylitis
Lateral epicondylitis or Tennis elbow involves degenerative changes in the extensor tendon origins, causing persistent elbow pain. PRP stimulates healing in this hypovascular region by delivering concentrated platelets directly to the tendon. The treatment triggers a controlled inflammatory response that promotes collagen synthesis and tendon remodelling. Studies demonstrate PRP’s superiority over cortisone for long-term pain relief, with the vast majority of patients showing significant improvement at 3 months. The injection is performed using a peppering technique to maximise growth factor release.
Post-procedure, patients follow a specific eccentric loading protocol to guide proper fibre alignment. Unlike cortisone which provides temporary relief but may weaken tendons, PRP promotes actual structural repair. The treatment is particularly effective for chronic cases (>3 months duration) that haven’t responded to bracing or physical therapy.
PRP Treatment Process
Tendon Mapping
Ultrasound identifies hypoechoic areas
Dry Needling
Stimulates healing response
PRP Injection
Delivered to extensor tendon origin on lateral epicondyle
Healing and Pain Relief
Avoid repetitive movements (ie. mouse use, typing, etc) for at least 6 weeks, until pain and inflammation are under control. Hand therapy strengthening exercises are advisable to prevent recurrence
Treatment Eligibility
Ideal Candidates:
✔ Chronic symptoms (>3 months)
✔ Failed bracing/PT
✔ Manual labourers/athletes / repetitive movement workers
Exclusions:
✘ Acute muscle strains
✘ Radial tunnel syndrome
Pricing
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tennis Elbow, and how is it treated with PRP?
Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterised by pain and tenderness on the outer side of the elbow. It’s an overuse injury primarily affecting the tendons of the forearm muscles that extend the wrist and fingers, specifically where they attach to the bony prominence on the outside of the elbow (lateral epicondyle). This condition involves degeneration and microtears within the tendon, not just inflammation. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) treatment involves injecting a concentrated solution of your own blood platelets, which are rich in various growth factors, directly into the affected tendon at the elbow. The goal is for these concentrated growth factors to stimulate and accelerate the body’s natural healing and repair processes, promoting collagen formation, reducing pain, and improving the tendon’s structural integrity, offering a regenerative approach to chronic tennis elbow.
Am I a suitable candidate for PRP treatment for Tennis Elbow in Australia?
PRP treatment for tennis elbow is typically considered for individuals who have experienced chronic pain (usually lasting more than 3-6 months) and have not found adequate relief from conventional non-surgical treatments. These standard treatments often include rest, activity modification, ice, physiotherapy (focusing on eccentric strengthening), bracing, and sometimes corticosteroid injections (though repeated injections are often discouraged due to potential tendon weakening). Your orthopaedic specialist or sports physician will thoroughly assess your condition, including a physical examination and often an ultrasound or MRI scan, to confirm the diagnosis, assess the extent of the tendon damage, and rule out other causes of elbow pain. PRP is often explored as a non-surgical alternative when conservative measures have failed to provide lasting relief.
What does a PRP injection for Tennis Elbow involve, and what is the typical recovery process like?
The procedure for a PRP injection for tennis elbow usually begins with a small amount of blood being drawn from your arm. This blood is then processed in a specialised centrifuge to separate and concentrate the platelets, creating the PRP solution. The concentrated PRP is then injected directly into the affected tendon on the outer elbow, typically under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise placement. You might experience some mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure during the injection. After the procedure, it’s common to have some localised soreness, tenderness, or bruising around the injection site for a few days. Your doctor will provide specific post-injection instructions, which generally involve a period of reduced use of the arm and avoiding anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) for a certain period, followed by a gradual and structured rehabilitation program, often guided by a physiotherapist. This rehabilitation is crucial for strengthening the forearm muscles and optimising the long-term outcome. Improvement in symptoms and tendon healing often develops gradually over several weeks to a few months.
How many PRP injections are usually needed for Tennis Elbow, and is it covered by Medicare or private health insurance in Australia?
The number of PRP injections needed for tennis elbow can vary. While some patients may find significant relief with a single injection, many protocols suggest a course of 1 to 3 injections, often spaced a few weeks apart, to achieve optimal and sustained results. Your treating specialist will advise on the most appropriate number of injections for your specific condition based on their clinical assessment and your response to treatment. In Australia, PRP treatments for tennis elbow are generally not covered by Medicare. This means the cost of the PRP procedure itself is typically an out-of-pocket expense for the patient. Similarly, most private health insurance funds in Australia currently do not provide rebates for the PRP therapy for this specific condition, as it’s still considered an emerging treatment. It is always advisable to discuss the full costs involved and confirm any potential out-of-pocket expenses directly with your clinic and your private health fund prior to commencing treatment.
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