If you’re suffering from tennis elbow, you know how much that burning pain on the outside of your elbow can disrupt your daily activities. Before resorting to surgery, there are several conservative treatment options to try for relief.
Home remedies like icing and over-the-counter NSAID medications can help reduce inflammation and pain. Try holding an ice pack on your outer elbow for 10-15 minutes a few times daily. Ibuprofen and naproxen are anti-inflammatory medicines that can ease discomfort. Wearing an elbow brace can also provide support and take pressure off the sore tendon.
Physical therapy focuses on stretching and strengthening exercises to rehab the injured tissue. Your therapist may also use massage, ultrasound, or other hands-on techniques to promote healing. Eccentric movements, where the muscle lengthens as it contracts, are beneficial for rebuilding tendon strength.
Corticosteroid injections can temporarily relieve pain by reducing inflammation around the elbow. However, research shows they may delay full recovery.
A newer treatment gaining popularity is platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy. Injected PRP contains growth factors that stimulate tissue repair. One study found PRP more effective than steroids for reducing tennis elbow pain long-term.
Though uncomfortable, tennis elbow often improves with conservative measures over 6-12 months. But if you still have persistent symptoms, surgery to remove damaged tendon tissue may be warranted. This is typically an outpatient procedure with a relatively quick recovery.
Tennis elbow can be frustrating, but patience and the proper treatment will return you to total activity. Explore your options, and don’t hesitate to ask your doctor for help finding relief. Proactive management and targeted therapies offer pathways to mitigate tennis elbow and enhance life quality.
At Columbia Pain Management, we understand the evolving science of pain and provide innovative treatments to help you reclaim your life. If you’re trapped by unrelenting pain, our experts guide you toward healing and fulfillment. Call 503-654-5636 or 541-205-0173 to schedule an appointment. We’re committed to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life. Let us assist you in taking the first step toward a pain-free life.
