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

Introduction: 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. Materials and Methods: 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. Results: 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. Conclusion: 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.