How to Treat Elbow Pain
Elbow pain may be caused by tendinitis, which is an inflammation of the tendon, arthritis, bursitis, strains, an injury, or an elbow infection. You may experience elbow pain if you play golf, tennis, or other sports that require repetitive, strong movements of the arm and elbow joint. If elbow pain is not effectively treated, it may become chronic and lead to limited range of motion of your arm. There are steps you can take to treat elbow pain.
Things You'll Need
- Medical evaluation
- Ice pack
- Elastic bandage (e.g., Ace bandage)
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Prescription pain medication
Instructions
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See your doctor. You will need a medical examination to determine the cause of your elbow pain. Your doctor will asses your pain and determine if you have limitations in your range of motion. He will devise a treatment plan on the basis of his medical evaluation.
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Apply ice. Ice your elbow for 15 minutes every hour during the first 24 hours. Continue icing your elbow every 4 hours for the next 3 days. Use an ice bag, or wrap ice in a soft cloth. Never apply ice directly to your skin.
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Wrap your elbow. Use an elastic bandage to wrap your elbow. This will stabilize and support your elbow and minimize the pain. Do not wrap your elbow too tightly, because this may compromise your circulation.
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Inquire about an anti-inflammatory medication. Ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication to reduce your pain. These medications will reduce your pain and relieve swelling. Read the directions carefully, and only take the recommended dosage.
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Inquire about prescription pain medication. If your elbow pain is severe, ask your doctor if he recommends prescription pain medication. Prescription pain medications will relieve your elbow pain; however, they may cause side effects such as drowsiness and lack of coordination. Never drive while taking the medication, and only take the recommended dosage.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask about physical therapy. Ask your doctor if physical therapy will help your elbow pain. Treatment by a physical therapist may alleviate your elbow pain and improve your range of motion.
If your elbow pain is accompanied by swelling, redness, increased pain, or a fever, call your doctor. This may indicate an infection of the elbow joint and will require antibiotic therapy.
