Comparison of ultrasound-guided dry needling and platelet-rich plasma injection in the management of refractory lateral epicondyle tendinopathy.

Study Summary

50 patients with refractory lateral epicondyle tendinopathy were randomized to receive ultrasound-guided dry needling or platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections. The primary outcome of interest was the change in Patient-Rated Tennis Elbow Evaluation (PRTEE) score from baseline to 6 months. Secondary outcomes included visual analogue scale (VAS) pain, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores, and grip strength. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and 1, 3, and 6 months. Overall, the results revealed significant improvement in both groups, but PRP produced better PRTEE scores at 3 and 6 months, VAS scores at all follow-up assessments, and QuickDASH scores at 6 months. Grip strength improved similarly between groups. These findings suggest that both treatments are effective, although PRP may provide greater improvements in pain and patient-reported function.