It’s not too hard to figure out the individuals who may be most commonly affected by tennis elbow—the name says it all! However, tennis players aren’t the only ones susceptible to this type of injury. In fact, tennis elbow (also called lateral epicondylitis) is quite the common complaint and can affect anyone who overuses their elbow. Painting, gardening, or even childcare can all lead to irritation of the lateral epicondyle, the bony part on the outside of your elbow, so don’t think that you are immune because you stay off the courts!
While some experts in Las Vegas, NV can help you to determine the most beneficial tennis elbow treatment for your particular case, you are likely wondering how you can reduce your pain and stiffness more immediately.
Before Your Appointment
Until your appointment with a local physician, make sure to do the following in order to take care of your elbow and start its healing in the right direction.
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Rest is critical since tennis elbow is a type of tendon injury. The tendons in your body attach muscles to a bone; because tennis elbow is an inflammation of the tendon connecting muscles in your arm to the lateral epicondyle (remember that bone in your elbow mentioned above?) you should rest your fingers, wrist, and forearm muscles to allow this tendon to heal.
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Consider using cold packs or ice packs for about 10 or 15 minutes at a time, a few times each day. If a warm bath or shower feels better, go for it!
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Try a few warmup exercises or stretches to reduce stiffness commonly associated with tennis elbow.
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Take some anti-inflammatory medications that you can find over the counter. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen can both have beneficial effects to reduce pain and swelling.
Getting Help
During your appointment, your Las Vegas, NV physician can help you to choose the best tennis elbow treatment for you. If you have any specific questions or concerns, don’t forget to ask!
