Transarterial Micro-Embolization (TAME) for Chronic Tendon & Joint Pain: Frozen Shoulder · Plantar Fasciitis · Tennis Elbow · Golfer's Elbow

Chronic tendon and joint pain from frozen shoulder, plantar fasciitis (heel pain), tennis elbow, and golfer's elbow is frequently associated with abnormal microvessels that develop around chronically inflamed tissue and perpetuate the pain cycle. This is why pain can keep coming back even after rest, physiotherapy, shockwave therapy, and injections. At YOUNIFY Clinic in Bangkok, we offer transarterial micro-embolization (TAME), a minimally invasive, image-guided option for persistent pain that has not improved sufficiently with conservative care and for people who want to stay off the operating table. An interventional specialist advances a thin catheter through a tiny puncture under real- time X-ray guidance into the small arteries supplying the painful area. The abnormal microvessels associated with persistent inflammation are selectively treated, while healthy circulation and surrounding structures are preserved. There is no incision, no hardware, and no tendon cutting, and most suitable patients go home the same day. What results can TAME help achieve?Reduce persistent pain that has not responded to physiotherapy, medication, or injections;Frozen shoulder: less night pain and a platform for rehabilitation to finally progress;Plantar fasciitis: relief for chronic heel pain without cutting the fascia;Tennis / golfer's elbow: a calmer tendon origin and better grip comfort, without tendon release surgery;Same-day discharge for most suitable patients;Can be combined with a continued rehabilitation plan. At YOUNIFY Clinic, TAME is part of a structured interventional pain program, not a one- off procedure. We first confirm the diagnosis and whether abnormal vascularity is likely contributing, and we tell you honestly if TAME is not the right tool for your condition. Who may be suitable for TAME?Frozen shoulder months into the condition, still painful despite physiotherapy or injections;Plantar fasciitis / heel pain of more than 6 months, unresponsive to orthotics, stretching, or shockwave therapy;Tennis or golfer's elbow that keeps coming back after rest, bracing, or injections;Persistent localized tendon or joint pain limiting work, sport, or sleep;Want to avoid — or have declined — surgery. TAME is not appropriate for every cause of pain. It does not repair complete tendon tears, fractures, instability, or nerve entrapment. Final eligibility and expected outcomes are determined after specialist assessment and review of imaging. TAME recovery timeline:Day of procedure: performed through a tiny puncture under real-time X-ray guidance; local anesthesia with sedation as appropriate; most suitable patients go home the same day. First 2-3 days: mild soreness at the puncture site may occur; normal light activity is encouraged. Within several days, most patients resume daily routines and office work; the rehabilitation plan continues as advised. Long-term recovery: pain relief typically develops progressively over the following weeks; physician follow-up continues by video after you return home.