Treatment
Treatment includes:
Rest
Do not do activities that cause pain. Do not play sports, especially golf and tennis, until the pain is gone.
Cold
Apply ice or a cold pack to the inner side of the elbow for 15-20 minutes, four times a day for several days after the injury. Wrap the ice or cold pack in a towel. Do not apply the ice directly to your skin.
Medication
The following drugs can help to reduce inflammation and pain:
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil)
- Naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn)
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
If you still have tenderness in the elbow while taking these drugs, do not return to physical activity. Check with your doctor.
Compression
Wear a counter-force brace on your forearm if recommended by your healthcare professional. This brace limits the force generated by your forearm muscles when you use them.
Heat
Apply heat to the elbow only when you are returning to physical activity. Then use it before stretching or getting ready to play sports.
Stretching
When the acute pain is gone, start gentle stretching as recommended by a healthcare professional. Stay within pain limits. Hold each stretch for about 10 seconds and repeat six times.
Strengthening
Begin strengthening exercises for the flexor muscles of the forearm as recommended.
Gradual Return to Your Sport
Begin arm motions of your sport or activity (eg, golf swings, tennis strokes, painting) as recommended.
Cortisone Injection
The doctor may inject cortisone into the elbow near the medial epicondyle to reduce pain and inflammation.
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2024 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.