Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition characterized by pain and inflammation in the tendons on the outside of the elbow. While there is no instant cure for tennis elbow, there are several effective treatments to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. Note that recovery from tennis elbow may take time, and individual responses to treatment can vary.
Here are some strategies that can help speed up the healing process…
- Rest – Give your elbow ample time to rest and avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Continued use of the affected arm can delay healing and worsen the condition.
- Ice Therapy – Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every few hours during the initial 48 hours. Ice helps reduce inflammation and numbs the area, providing pain relief.
- Compression – Use a compression band or brace to provide support and reduce swelling in the affected area.
- Elevate – Elevate your arm when possible to reduce swelling and encourage blood flow to the area.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief – Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen, can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions.
- Physical Therapy – A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to stretch and strengthen the forearm muscles, helping to promote healing and prevent future occurrences of tennis elbow.
- Bracing or Strapping – A specialized brace or strap worn around the forearm can help reduce strain on the affected tendons and provide additional support during daily activities.
- Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) – ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses shockwaves to stimulate healing in the affected tendons.
- Corticosteroid Injections – In severe cases, a corticosteroid injection may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to reduce inflammation and provide short-term pain relief.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – PRP therapy involves injecting a concentrated solution of the patient’s blood platelets into the affected area to promote healing.
While some of these treatments can provide quick pain relief, the healing process for tennis elbow usually takes weeks to months. Be patient and consistent with your treatment plan, and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized recommendations based on the severity of your condition. If conservative treatments do not provide relief, your healthcare provider may suggest other options, including surgery in rare cases.
