Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfer's elbow (medial epicondylitis) are common conditions in which the elbow tendons undergo micro-tears and degeneration from repetitive strain — significantly affecting daily function. Without surgery, regenerative therapies achieve complete recovery in most patients.
Why Epicondylitis Develops
Lateral epicondylitis is triggered by overuse of wrist extensor muscles (backhand stroke, mouse use, screwdriver work). Medial epicondylitis comes from wrist flexor strain (forehand stroke, golf swing, heavy lifting). Histological examination in both shows degenerative changes — angiofibroblastic hyperplasia — reflecting failed healing rather than inflammation. This is why steroid injections, although effective short-term, can impair long-term healing; regenerative approaches fill this gap.
Treatments We Apply
PRP injection: growth factors activate fibroblasts and stimulate angiogenesis. Long-term efficacy in epicondylitis is supported by clinical trials, with clear superiority over corticosteroid injections at 6+ months.
Local ozone: applied to the tendon sheath or peri-articular tissue, ozone complements PRP with anti-inflammatory and tissue-remodelling support. Useful for rapid relief in acute flares.
Mesotherapy and neural therapy: peritendinous mesotherapy improves local circulation and suppresses pain mediators. Neural therapy targets the chronic pain component and normalises reflex responses.
Kinesiotape and ergonomic correction: straps reduce tendon load during recovery. Reviewing desk setup and tool-handling technique is the most critical step in preventing recurrence.
Exercise programme: eccentric loading protocols are essential for tendon healing. Once pain has eased, graded loading remodels tendon structure and restores tensile capacity.
Course and Prevention
Typically 3–6 sessions of PRP or ozone yield meaningful improvement. Correcting recurring strain patterns — sports technique, work ergonomics, daily habits — is at least as important as clinical intervention. For recurrence, a more comprehensive rehab plan is implemented.
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