Comparative Evaluation of Autologous Blood vs. Corticosteroid Injection in Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomised Trial at SKMCH Muzaffarpur

Dr. Md Shiraz Ali, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Dr. Md Rehan Khalique

Abstract: Background: Lateral epicondylitis, commonly referred to as tennis elbow, is a frequent musculoskeletal condition characterized by pain and tenderness over the lateral elbow. While corticosteroid injections have been the mainstay of treatment, they are associated with short-term benefits and high recurrence rates. Recently, autologous blood injections have emerged as a biological alternative to promote tissue regeneration. Objective: This study aimed to compare the efficacy and long-term outcomes of autologous blood injection versus corticosteroid injection in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis in a tertiary care setting. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted at Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), Muzaffarpur. A total of 100 patients clinically diagnosed with lateral epicondylitis were included and randomly assigned to two equal groups. A) Group A (n = 50): Received 2 ml autologous venous blood mixed with 1 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine. B) Group B (n = 50): Received 80 mg methylprednisolone acetate with 1 ml of 0.5% bupivacaine. Pain was assessed using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) and Nirschl Staging System at baseline, 1 week, 4 weeks, 12 weeks, and 6 months. Results: Patients in Group B reported faster pain relief initially at 1 and 4 weeks (p < 0.01). However, at 12 weeks and 6 months, Group A showed significantly better pain reduction and lower recurrence. At 6 months, 88% of Group A reported complete pain relief, while only 52% in Group B achieved similar outcomes. Recurrence rate was 10% in Group A versus 34% in Group B. Conclusion: Autologous blood injection provides superior long-term outcomes with lower recurrence compared to corticosteroid injection. It is a cost-effective and biologically rational alternative in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.

Keywords: Lateral epicondylitis, Autologous blood, Corticosteroid, Tennis elbow, VAS, Nirschl staging, Randomized trial, SKMCH Muzaffarpur

How to Cite?: Dr. Md Shiraz Ali, Dr. Rakesh Kumar, Dr. Md Rehan Khalique, "Comparative Evaluation of Autologous Blood vs. Corticosteroid Injection in Lateral Epicondylitis: A Randomised Trial at SKMCH Muzaffarpur", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 967-970, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25818102333, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25818102333