Learn How to Treat Tennis Elbow

Tennis elbow is also known as elbow tendinitis. In tennis elbow, the lateral and medial epicondyles are affected. The outside of the elbow is affected in tennis elbow. This is what makes it different from golf elbow, which is also a form of elbow tendinitis. In golf elbow, it is the inside of the elbow that is affected.

How to treat tennis elbow effectively involves some of the following methods.

NSAIDs

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used to help address the pain and inflammation that accompanies tennis elbow. Over-the-counter versions of NSAIDs can be identified by their ingredients. Those drugs with naproxen or ibuprofen may be considered to be anti-inflammatory in nature.

Bracing and Support

A tennis elbow injury may require some type of support or bracing for stabilization and the reduction of pain.

Ice

Ice packs may be used to help reduce swelling and pain for the sufferer of tennis elbow.

Rest

Rest ordered by the doctor could be resting the affected limb as much as possible or simply avoiding certain activities or motions while it heals. It is crucial for quick healing that this order be followed closely. Ignoring it can result in further aggravating the injury.

Injections

Injections into the elbow could contain cortisone and an anesthetic in order to help alleviate pain the patient is experiencing.

Topical Corticosteroids

Topical corticosteroids can be an option for those wishing to avoid a cortisone injection. The corticosteroid is applied to the skin and is absorbed through it. The purpose is to help relieve pain, inflammation and swelling.

Exercise

Some stretching and other exercises may be recommended to aid in healing and recovery. The physician or physical therapist can demonstrate these exercises so they will be done correctly by the patient who is doing them at home.

Re-Learning

Another tactic for healing and recovery can involve re-learning how to perform certain tasks or make certain movements so as to minimize the risk of re-injury. These tactics will be taught by the treating physician or physical therapist, but the patient may also find new ways to do things while in recovery, through his or her own experiences.

Surgery

In a small number of cases, surgery may be required. This is rare, but if nothing else has helped and if the pain is persistent for at least six months, this may be an option that is presented as a means of how to treat tennis elbow. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Only about one in 10 people with tennis elbow needs surgery.” Though this option may seem drastic, for the patients who use it, it can make a huge difference in pain relief and function.

References

Health Encyclopedia – Diseases and Conditions. Tendinitis: Elbow Tendinitis. Updated April 1, 2009. https://www.healthscout.com/ency/68/128/main.html

Tennis Elbow. Mayo Clinic Staff. October 25, 2008. https://www.mayoclinic.com/health/tennis-elbow/DS00469