Platelet Rich Plasma Injection Versus Corticosteroid Injection in the Treatment of Lateral Epicondylitis of Humerus

Abstract

BackgroundCorticosteroid injections and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) are both established treatments for lateral epicondylitis but carry variable short to midterm efficacy. We compared midterm efficacy of autologous PRP versus corticosteroid injections in patients with lateral epicondylitis. MethodsA single-center, hospital-based, quasi-experimental study was conducted from 15th August 2025 to 14th June 2026 at a tertiary care center.  Seventy-three participants with chronic lateral epicondylitis were allocated to two groups - Group A (Inj. Triamcinolone 40 mg, n=36) and Group B (PRP, n=37), using non-randomized, pragmatic allocation based on the OPD schedule of respective orthopedic consultants. Outcomes were assessed using Visual Analogue Scale for pain and Nepali Quick-Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score at baseline, six weeks, three months, and six months.Results Baseline characteristics were comparable between the groups. At six weeks and three months, the corticosteroid group showed significantly greater pain reduction (p<0.001) and superior functional improvement (p<0.001; p=0.003) compared to PRP group. By six months, VAS (p=0.069) and Q-DASH (p=0.796) scores were comparable between the groups. Within-group analysis showed a rapid early plateau in corticosteroid group, whereas PRP group showed continued progressive improvement up to six months.Conclusions Corticosteroid injection provides superior short-term pain relief and functional recovery at six weeks and three months, whereas PRP yields progressive clinical improvement. By six months, both treatment modalities achieve comparable clinical outcomes. Treatment decision should be individualized based on clinical context and patient preference regarding early symptoms relief versus gradual recovery.