Lateral Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow) Injection

Lateral epicondylitis, commonly known as Tennis Elbow, is a condition that causes pain and inflammation on the outside of the elbow where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to the lateral epicondyle (bony bump on the outer elbow). It often results from repetitive wrist and arm motions — not just from tennis, but from activities like typing, painting, carpentry, or heavy lifting.

Your provider may recommend an injection if you have:

• Persistent elbow pain that has not improved with rest, physical therapy, or medications
• Difficulty gripping or lifting objects
• Chronic inflammation in the tendon that's limiting your daily activities
• Severe tenderness over the outside of the elbow

An injection can help reduce pain and inflammation, allowing you to regain strength and mobility more quickly.

• The procedure is performed in an outpatient setting.
• You will be seated comfortably with your arm supported.
• The skin over your elbow is cleaned and sterilized.
• A local anesthetic may be used to numb the injection site.
• Using anatomical landmarks — and sometimes ultrasound guidance — your provider will carefully inject a small amount of corticosteroid and/or local anesthetic directly into the painful tendon area.
• The procedure usually takes about 15–20 minutes.

• You may experience immediate pain relief from the anesthetic, but this may wear off in a few hours.
• Steroid medication typically begins working within 2–5 days to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.
• Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is normal and should resolve within a few days.
• You should avoid strenuous activity with the affected arm for 24–48 hours after the injection.
• Most patients experience significant pain reduction and improved grip strength over the following weeks.

Lateral epicondylitis injections are generally safe. Potential, rare risks include:

• Temporary increased pain after the injection
• Bruising or swelling at the injection site
• Infection (very rare)
• Tendon weakening or rupture (especially with repeated steroid injections)
• Allergic reaction to medications (extremely rare)

At Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah, we use precise techniques to minimize these risks and ensure a safe experience.

Patients trust Horizon Spine & Pain of Utah because we offer:

• Board-certified musculoskeletal and pain management specialists
• Expertise in targeted, image-guided injection therapy
• Comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your recovery goals
• Minimally invasive solutions to restore elbow strength and function

We are committed to helping you return to your work, hobbies, and daily life — pain-free.