TENNIS ELBOW INJECTION
Understanding Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow, medically referred to as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition that causes pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow. Despite the name, you don’t need to play tennis to develop it. The condition results from overuse or strain of the forearm muscles and tendons, particularly those responsible for wrist extension and gripping.
At Alton Pain Clinic, we offer ultrasound-guided cortisone injections to help manage pain and inflammation associated with Tennis Elbow. This technique allows our clinicians to deliver medication precisely where it’s needed for effective relief.
Symptoms of Tennis Elbow
- Pain or burning on the outer elbow (lateral epicondyle)
- Pain that may radiate down the forearm
- Weak grip strength
- Increased discomfort when lifting, gripping, or twisting the forearm (e.g., turning a doorknob or using tools)
- Worsening pain with wrist extension movements
- Stiffness or aching in the elbow, especially in the morning
- Discomfort when fully straightening or bending the elbow
Treatment We Offer
When conservative treatments fail to relieve symptoms, a cortisone shot for Tennis Elbow may be considered. At Alton Pain Clinic, we perform this injection under ultrasound guidance to ensure precise targeting of the affected tendon.
- A mixture of corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory) and local anaesthetic is injected into the area around the damaged tendon.
- The use of ultrasound imaging allows the clinician to visualise the tendon in real-time and accurately place the medication.
- The procedure is quick and is done in a clinical setting without the need for general anaesthesia.
- Directly targets the inflamed tendon with high accuracy
- Reduces inflammation and pain at the source
- Improves ability to perform daily tasks and rehabilitation exercises
- Minimally invasive and performed without surgery
- Helps avoid long-term discomfort from chronic tendon pain
A steroid injection for Tennis Elbow works by:
- Suppressing inflammation: The corticosteroid limits the local immune response that causes pain and swelling.
- Blocking pain signals: The local anaesthetic offers short-term pain relief by numbing the nerve endings near the affected tendon.
- Breaking the pain cycle: Reducing pain enables better participation in stretching and strengthening exercises, promoting healing.
Ultrasound-guided PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections for tennis elbow enable precise placement of regenerative therapy directly into the degenerated tendon. With real-time ultrasound imaging, clinicians can accurately identify the area of tendon damage and deliver PRP exactly where it is needed, supporting tissue healing while minimising impact on surrounding structures. This targeted approach helps stimulate repair, reduce pain, and improve overall tendon function over time.
At Joint Injections, we specialise in providing expert care using advanced ultrasound-guided injection techniques, including cortisone, and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma). Our highly skilled clinicians ensure that each treatment is delivered with precision and care, accurately targeting the affected area for maximum benefit.
Whether you require the anti-inflammatory effects of cortisone, the cushioning properties of hyaluronic acid, or the regenerative benefits of PRP, Joint Injections offers personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs. For tennis elbow, our precise and comprehensive approach helps reduce pain, support tendon healing, and restore function, ultimately improving your quality of life.
Your Care Pathway with us
- To book an appointment you can call our reception line, 0142084487, or email to info@altonpainclinic.co.uk or click the button given below.
- Comprehensive Musculoskeletal examination and testing.
- Same day Ultrasound Guided Injection for pain relief.
- Discussion of your treatment plan, treatment plan can include advanced treatments for example Cortisone Injections, Hyaluronic injections and various other options tailored to your specific needs.
What our customers say
Causes of Tennis Elbow
Tennis Elbow is primarily caused by overuse or repetitive stress on the forearm muscles and tendons. It is often linked to:
- Sports involving racket use, especially tennis or squash
- Manual labour involving repetitive wrist or arm motions
- Repeated use of hand tools
- Prolonged use of a computer mouse or keyboard
- Lifting heavy objects with a bent elbow and extended wrist
Risk Factors
You may be at higher risk of developing Tennis Elbow if you:
- Are aged between 35 and 55
- Engage in repetitive manual or arm-based work
- Play racquet sports without proper technique
- Have previously had elbow or forearm injuries
- Perform tasks that involve forceful gripping or lifting
How long does Tennis Elbow last?
Tennis elbow can last for several months, although the duration varies depending on the severity of the condition and how it is managed. Many people improve within 6 to 12 months with appropriate rest, activity modification and treatment, while some cases can take longer to settle. Continuing activities that strain the forearm and elbow may prolong symptoms. If pain persists, worsens or affects your daily activities, a clinical assessment can help identify the cause and determine whether treatments such as an injection for tennis elbow may be appropriate.
Golfers Elbow vs Tennis Elbow
Understanding the difference between Golfer’s Elbow and Tennis Elbow is essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment:
- Tennis Elbow affects the outer part of the elbow (lateral epicondyle) and involves extensor tendons.
- Golfer’s Elbow affects the inner part of the elbow (medial epicondyle) and involves flexor tendons.
Though both conditions are caused by overuse, the location of pain and muscles involved are distinct. At Alton Pain Clinic, we use ultrasound imaging to ensure a precise diagnosis and targeted injection therapy.
Diagnosis
Our clinicians begin with a thorough clinical assessment, which may include:
- Detailed discussion of your symptoms and activities
- Physical examination of elbow movement, tenderness, and grip strength
- Ultrasound scanning to visualise tendon integrity and inflammation
Ultrasound allows for accurate diagnosis and guides us during injection in the elbow for Tennis Elbow, ensuring safety and precision.
Why Choose Alton Pain Clinic?
- Experienced clinicians specialising in musculoskeletal conditions
- Use of ultrasound guidance for precision and safety
- Personalised assessment and evidence-based care
- Convenient, professional clinic environment
- Dedicated to patient comfort and optimal outcomes
Conclusion
At Alton Pain Clinic, we specialise in providing expert care using advanced ultrasound-guided injection techniques, including cortisone, and PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma). Our highly skilled clinicians ensure that each treatment is delivered with precision and care, accurately targeting the affected area for maximum benefit.
Whether you require the anti-inflammatory effects of cortisone, the cushioning properties of hyaluronic acid, or the regenerative benefits of PRP, Alton Pain Clinic offers personalised treatment plans tailored to your needs. For tennis elbow, our precise and comprehensive approach helps reduce pain, support tendon healing, and restore function, ultimately improving your quality of life.