Home Remedies for Lateral Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis, known more colloquially as tennis elbow, is a condition characterized by pain in the elbow due to overuse. Its common name comes from its frequency in those who play tennis. Treatment typically involves medication, orthotics or surgery, depending on the severity of the condition; however, a number of treatments exist that can be performed at home to alleviate pain and discomfort.

Symptoms

• Lateral epicondylitis typically presents with a burning pain, often severe, concentrated on the outside part of the elbow. The pain usually starts off mild, getting progressively worse as the condition worsens. The symptoms can be exacerbated through repeated use of the arm or through lifting even very light objects such as a mug or book. Severe cases typically present with pain that can spread through the forearm as well.

Home Remedies

• The best way to treat lateral epicondylitis at home is through what MayoClinic.com calls the PRICE method: protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation.

  Preventing additional injury is important. Wearing an orthotic device such as an elbow brace may cushion any unintended contact and help expedite the healing process.

  Given that tennis elbow is primarily caused by overuse, resting the arm and elbow is essential to encourage healing. Some movement is necessary, however, to avoid the arm becoming the stiff. A lot of movement occurs at night, so wearing a splint or a brace can help limit unnecessary movement at night, which will help alleviate morning pain.

  Throughout the course of tennis elbow and especially after engaging in any high-impact or strenuous activity, applying ice to the elbow can help reduce inflammation and swelling.

  The affected elbow should be kept compressed, typically using an elastic wrap or a bandage.

  Finally, keeping the affected elbow elevated above the chest can help keep swelling in check.

  Assuming the pain is not caused by serious tears in the ligaments or tendons of the elbow, this method of treatment is often all that's necessary for tennis elbow to heal.

Medication

• With the exception of a corticosteroid injection from your doctor, most medication used to treat lateral epicondylitis comes in the form of over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Examples of over-the-counter pain relievers include Aleve, Advil, Tylenol and Motrin.

  While these are useful in the short term, extended use of OTC pain relievers can lead to severe side effects such as gastrointestinal problems.