PRP for Tennis Elbow

What tennis elbow feels like day to day

Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) tends to show up in the small, repeated moments — gripping a coffee cup, turning a doorknob, shaking someone's hand. It doesn't have to come from tennis; any repetitive gripping or wrist motion can irritate the tendon. It's a persistent, nagging kind of pain that's easy to underestimate until it starts limiting things you do every day.

Is PRP right for tennis elbow like yours?

PRP is commonly considered for tennis elbow that hasn't fully responded to rest, bracing, physical therapy, or activity modification — especially when symptoms have persisted for several months. It tends to work best for tendon irritation rather than a complete tendon tear, which may need a different evaluation. Whether it's the right next step for your elbow is something we'll assess together at your consultation.

What to expect

A typical visit includes a consultation and exam, a routine blood draw, a short preparation period, and a targeted injection into the irritated tendon at the elbow. Many patients describe gradual improvement over several weeks as the tendon responds, rather than immediate relief.

Recovery

Soreness around the elbow for a day or two afterward is common. We generally recommend avoiding gripping-heavy activity (racquet sports, heavy lifting, repetitive tool use) for the first several days, avoiding anti-inflammatory medication unless we advise otherwise, and gradually reintroducing the activities that aggravate it. We'll give you a plan specific to your work and sport.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to stop playing tennis or my sport entirely? Not necessarily, but you'll likely need to modify or pause the aggravating activity for a period during recovery. We'll help you figure out a realistic timeline for getting back to it.

How is this different from a cortisone injection for tennis elbow? Cortisone can offer quicker short-term relief but has been associated with weaker long-term tendon outcomes in some studies. PRP works more gradually, aiming to support the tendon's own repair. We can talk through the tradeoffs for your situation.

Will I need more than one injection? Some patients respond to a single session; others benefit from a second, spaced out over several weeks. We'll reassess with you rather than assume in advance.