Elbow pain is a common complaint, and often the terms “tendonitis” and “tendinopathy” are used interchangeably. However, there are key distinctions between these conditions. Tendonitis refers to the inflammation of a tendon, typically characterized by sudden onset, pain, and swelling. In contrast, tendinopathy describes a broader range of tendon problems, including degeneration, microtears, and changes in the tendon’s structure. Tendinopathy often develops gradually over time due to overuse or repetitive strain. Another feature of teninopathy that differentiates it from tendinitis is the presence of small tears in the tendon. Due to the chronic nature of tendinopathy, the tissue often becomes dry and less elastic, making it more susceptible to the small tears in the less flexible tendon tissue when exposed to overuse.
Why is Elbow Tendinopathy so Painful?
While both conditions can cause significant elbow pain and discomfort, the underlying mechanisms differ. The tendons of the elbow are responsibile for attaching the muscles that move the wrist and fingers to the bones of the elbow. Overuse and repetitive motions in these muscles cause microscopic tears within the tendon tissue. These tears disrupt normal function and cause discomfort during activities that winvolve wrist and arm movements. Traditional approaches to tendonitis often focused on reducing inflammation, but research now suggests that inflammation may not be the primary driver in many cases of elbow pain. Instead, the focus has shifted towards addressing the underlying degenerative changes associated with tendinopathy.
Can I Reduce Pain From Elbow Tendiopathy?
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is an emerging treatment option for both tendonitis and tendinopathy. PRP can address the underlying degerative change to the tissue, or microtears, that are often the pain-generators in elbow tendinopathy. PRP involves concentrating platelets from the patient’s own blood. Platelets are rich in growth factors, which play a vital role in tissue repair and regeneration. When injected into the injured tendon, PRP aims to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, promoting tissue repair and reducing pain. Furthermore, in the realm of PRP within our Regenexx at New Regeneration Orthopedics offices in Sarasota, St. Petersburg, Orlando and Tampa, we see a significant difference in the concentration of PRP. In short, the doseage of PRP matters, as explained in this blog post on PRP concentration. In the case of elbow tendiopathy, we use high-concentration PRP to yield an effective result with a maximum tendon healing response.
The Takeaway?
PRP therapy may be an effective alternative for your elbow pain. Most importantly, when weighing the risks, alternatives and benefits of various elbow treatment options, it’s important to weigh the deleterious effects that a steroid shot would have on an already-damaged tendon. This article cites several studies describing the long-term impacts steroids have on tendon tissues. To get relief without causing further tissue damage, PRP therapy can be successfully used in conjunction with other conservative treatments, such as physical therapy, rest, and activity modification. If you or someone you love is struggling with chronic elbow pain interfering with their activities, contact us to set up an in-person or virtual consultstion with one of our expert regenerative medicine physicians.