What Are the Treatments for Elbow Tendonitis?

Elbow Tendinitis, also known as Tennis Elbow or Lateral or Radial Epicondylitis, is a relatively common condition among both athletes and non-athletes. It is an inflammation of the tendons in and around the elbow area brought on by overuse, injury and repetitive motions that strain the muscles and tendons. Not just a sports injury, it can affect anyone, depending on their day to day activities.

Avoid the Activity That Caused the Pain

• Whether it was brought on by too much time at the keyboard, heavy lifting, or playing golf, it's best to stop the activity that caused the flare up if you want to prevent further injury.

Rest the Affected Area

• The pain from tendinitis should subside over a period of three weeks, but it takes up to six weeks for scar tissue to form. This scar tissue is necessary to completely repair the injury. During this time, it's best to rest the arm and baby it as much as possible. Don't rush the healing process: it will more than likely just make the injury worse.

Brace the Area If Necessary

• It's a good idea to find an arm brace or elbow strap to protect the injured area. A simple ace bandage and sling should support the area while preventing too much movement. While you don't want to completely immobilize the area, it's a good idea to protect it from further strain.

Apply Ice

• Doctors typically recommend icing the affected area for 20 to 30 minutes every three to four hours for two to three days, or until the pain is gone. It will relieve the swelling and pain.

Medication

• To reduce the pain, simple NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs) are appropriate to take. NSAIDs will dilate your blood vessels to provide you with relief without stiffening the tissue.

Exercise the Area

• After you've given the injury some time to heal, you can ease into some light stretching. Ask your doctor to show you simple resistance movements to help build up your strength in that area.

Prevention

• When you've given the injury appropriate time to heal, you can ease back into normal activity, but never rush it. When you begin to strengthen your muscles with more exercise, it's a good idea to consult a physical therapist or trainer so you're using correct form in your physical activities. Having the correct form can prevent future injuries.