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ArticlesThe London PRP Clinic

PRP for Tennis Elbow

By Dr Jones3 min read

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PRP injections for tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) deliver concentrated growth factors directly to damaged tendons, promoting healing and reducing pain. Clinical studies show 70-80% of patients experience significant improvement. The London PRP Clinic offers doctor-led PRP for tennis elbow from £495.

How PRP Treats Tennis Elbow

Understanding Tennis Elbow:

Tennis elbow is tendon damage at the outside of the elbow, caused by repetitive strain. Traditional treatments (rest, physio, steroid injections) often provide only temporary relief.

How PRP Helps:

  • Delivers growth factors directly to damaged tendon

  • Stimulates healing at cellular level

  • Reduces inflammation naturally

  • Promotes new tissue formation

  • Addresses underlying damage, not just symptoms

Why PRP Over Steroids:

Steroid injections reduce inflammation quickly but can weaken tendons long-term. PRP promotes actual healing rather than masking pain.

Clinical Evidence for PRP Tennis Elbow

Research Shows:

  • 70-80% of patients report significant pain reduction

  • Improvements often lasting 6-12+ months

  • Better long-term outcomes than steroid injections

  • Most effective for chronic cases that haven't responded to other treatments

Best Results When:

  • Used after conservative treatments have failed

  • Condition is chronic (3+ months)

  • Tendon damage confirmed on ultrasound

  • Patient commits to rehabilitation protocol

Treatment Process

Before Treatment:

  • Consultation and assessment

  • Ultrasound may be recommended to visualise damage

  • Review of previous treatments

During Treatment:

  1. Blood drawn from arm

  2. PRP prepared (15 minutes)

  3. Elbow area cleaned and optionally numbed

  4. PRP injected into damaged tendon under guidance

  5. Total time: 30-45 minutes

After Treatment:

  • Rest elbow for 48-72 hours

  • Avoid anti-inflammatories (they can reduce PRP effectiveness)

  • Gradual return to activity over 2-4 weeks

  • Physiotherapy recommended to strengthen area

Recovery Timeline

Week 1: Rest, mild discomfort at injection site

Week 2-4: Gradual return to light activity

Week 4-6: Progressive strengthening exercises

Month 2-3: Significant improvement typically noticed

Month 3-6: Optimal results, return to full activity

Who Benefits Most

Ideal Candidates:

  • Chronic tennis elbow (3+ months)

  • Failed conservative treatment (rest, physio, bracing)

  • Previous steroid injections wearing off

  • Want to avoid surgery

  • Active individuals wanting to return to sport/activity

May Need Additional Treatment:

  • Very severe tendon tears (may need surgery)

  • Acute injuries (give conservative treatment time first)

Pricing

Single PRP Injection: £495

Course of 2 (if needed): £895 (save £95)

Includes consultation, treatment, and follow-up review.

Book Tennis Elbow Consultation

Book Consultation

Assess your tennis elbow and discuss treatment options.

FAQ

How long until I can play tennis again?

Typically 6-8 weeks for gradual return to sport. Full recovery may take 3-6 months.

Do I need more than one injection?

Most patients need only one injection. Some benefit from a second at 6-8 weeks if improvement is partial.

Is it better than cortisone?

For long-term outcomes, evidence suggests PRP is superior. Cortisone provides faster initial relief but doesn't heal the tendon.

The London PRP Clinic. Sports injury treatment in Marylebone.

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