Tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition causing pain on the outside of the elbow. It arises from overuse and inflammation of the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the elbow bone. While often associated with tennis players, anyone performing repetitive gripping motions can develop tennis elbow.
The good news is, tennis elbow pain is treatable with a variety of non-invasive methods. Here, we explore some of the most effective treatments to get you back to your daily activities.
**Rest and Activity Modification:**
The first line of defense against tennis elbow pain is rest. Avoid activities that aggravate the pain, allowing the inflamed tendons time to heal. This might involve modifying your grip on tools, taking breaks during work, or temporarily switching to pain-free exercises.
**Ice Therapy:**
Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, several times a day, can significantly reduce inflammation and pain. Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to prevent skin irritation.
**Pain Medication:**
Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or treatment for tennis elbow pain acetaminophen can offer temporary relief from pain and inflammation. However, consult your doctor before using any medication for extended periods.
**Compression Braces:**
Wearing a compression brace around the forearm and elbow can help support the muscles and tendons, reducing strain and promoting healing. Choose a brace that fits comfortably and provides the right level of compression.
**Physical Therapy:**
A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program specifically for tennis elbow. This program will typically involve stretches to improve flexibility and strengthening exercises to build muscle support around the elbow joint. Strengthening the muscles helps them better absorb force, reducing stress on the tendons.
**Other Treatment Options:**
* **Night Splints:** Wearing a splint at night can keep your wrist and elbow in a flexed position, preventing further strain while you sleep.
* **Corticosteroid Injections:** Injections of cortisone, a powerful anti-inflammatory medication, can be helpful in reducing inflammation and pain, especially if other treatments haven’t provided relief. However, these injections are typically used sparingly due to potential side effects.
* **Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT):** This non-invasive treatment uses sound waves to stimulate tissue healing and promote blood flow to the affected area. While research is ongoing, ESWT may be an option for chronic cases.
Tennis elbow pain can be frustrating, but with proper treatment, most people experience significant improvement. Remember, early intervention is key. If you experience persistent elbow pain, consult your doctor to receive a diagnosis and discuss the most suitable treatment for tennis elbow pain plan for you. By incorporating rest, activity modification, pain management strategies, and physical therapy, you can effectively manage tennis elbow pain and regain full use of your elbow.