Tennis elbow is a condition that involves tenderness of the tendons that connect to the lateral elbow or exterior of the elbow. The swollen tendons can trigger pain during movement or tenderness when touched. Playing tennis excessively or other activity that involves repetitive movements that involve the elbow can increase the risk for developing tennis elbow. Conservative treatment options including pain medications have been the preferred choice in managing the symptoms of tennis elbow.
Depending on the severity of the tennis elbow, there are various treatment options that can be used to manage the symptoms as well as help the individual resume his/her daily activities.
NSAIDs
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be utilized to manage the pain linked with tennis elbow. NSAIDs are readily available over-the-counter such as aspirin. These medications are highly effective in managing pain since they work by reducing the chemical signals that are linked to inflammation and pain.
The brain perceives diminished level of pain and the reduction in the inflammation over the elbow can also minimize the pain. These medications should be taken as directed on the packaging to prevent any unwanted side effects. In addition, those who have history of liver, stomach, kidney or heart problems must not use these medications. A doctor should be consulted if these medications could not provide pain relief after a few days.
Topical capsaicin cream
Capsaicin cream is a topically applied analgesic that can be utilized to manage joint pain. This cream can be used to treat the joint pain linked with tennis elbow. Capsaicin is a natural component present in hot peppers.
Once applied to the skin, the capsaicin cream generates chemicals that are linked to pain or soreness from the body. The individual will notice a burning sensation for a few minutes that must be followed by pain relief. This medication must not be used together with a heating pad. In addition, the individual must wash his/her hands after applying the cream. Remember that capsaicin cream must be used on a regular basis until the pain due to tennis elbow is resolved.
Corticosteroid injection
In severe cases of tennis elbow, an injection of corticosteroid can be given for pain relief. Corticosteroids work by reducing the pain, swelling and inflammation of the swollen elbow tendons. There are a few side effects linked with injectable corticosteroids but tends to vary from one individual to another.
Some individuals experience immediate relief while others do not enjoy any benefit over physical therapy. The doctor might provide several injections up to 3 times in a year until the medication takes effect.
Once an individual is suspected with tennis elbow, a doctor should be consulted for proper assessment and diagnosis. The appropriate treatment can be given to properly manage the symptoms of this condition.