How to Treat Golfer's Elbow: Is PRP helpful?

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a treatment that involves injecting a concentrated form of a patient's own blood plasma, which contains a higher concentration of platelets than normal, into the affected area. The platelets contain growth factors that can promote tissue healing and regeneration. Here's how PRP therapy can be used to treat golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis), along with other treatment strategies:

1. Consultation and Evaluation: Before undergoing PRP therapy, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider, typically an orthopedic specialist or sports medicine physician, who can evaluate your condition and determine if PRP therapy is appropriate for you. They will consider factors such as the severity of your golfer's elbow, your overall health, and any previous treatments you may have tried.

2. Preparation for PRP Injection: Prior to the PRP injection, a small sample of your blood will be drawn. This blood sample is then processed in a centrifuge to separate the platelets from other blood components, resulting in a concentrated PRP solution.

3. Injection Procedure: Once the PRP solution is prepared, it is injected directly into the affected area of the elbow under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precise placement. The injection is usually performed in an outpatient setting and typically takes only a few minutes.

4. Post-Injection Care: After the PRP injection, you may be advised to rest the affected arm and avoid strenuous activities for a short period. You may also be instructed to perform specific exercises or stretches to help promote healing and maintain flexibility in the elbow joint.

5. Follow-Up: Follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider may be scheduled to monitor your progress and determine if additional PRP injections or other treatments are needed.

In addition to PRP therapy, other conservative treatments for golfer's elbow may include:

• Rest and activity modification to avoid aggravating the injury.
• Ice therapy to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Physical therapy exercises to strengthen the muscles and improve flexibility.
• Use of a counterforce brace or elbow strap to reduce stress on the injured tendon.
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help alleviate pain and inflammation.

It's important to note that while PRP therapy has shown promising results for some individuals with golfer's elbow, its effectiveness can vary from person to person. It's also not a guaranteed cure, and some individuals may require multiple injections or additional treatments to achieve optimal results. Always consult with a healthcare professional to determine the most appropriate treatment approach for your specific condition.

Author

Dr. Catherine Logan, MD, MBA Catherine Logan, MD, MBA, MSPT, is a sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon specializing in complex knee and shoulder surgery at Colorado Sports Medicine and Orthopaedics (COSMO) in Denver, Colorado. As a former physical therapist & trainer, Dr. Logan provides a distinct expertise in sports injury, prevention, and surgical management.