An elbow pain cure, much like cures for other aches and pains, depends on the cause of the pain. Elbow pain may be caused by tendinitis — sometimes known as tennis elbow — arthritis, injuries such as sprains or fractures, or simply overuse. To find the best elbow pain cure, one must first determine the cause of the pain and treat the cause rather than the symptom. In many cases, simply taking an over the counter painkiller and allowing the elbow to rest should be sufficient, but in more severe cases, a stretching routine may be in order, medications may be prescribed, and surgery may be necessary in the most severe cases.
Nerve damage or compression can cause elbow pain, and in this case, the elbow pain cure that will work best is simply rest, icing, compression, and elevation. This treatment is often known as the RICE treatment, and it should work in many cases of elbow pain. If the nerve pain is caused by a more severe condition, such as arthritis or a bone fracture, the RICE treatment may not be enough to ease the pain. If a person has trouble holding any weight, or if pain persists for an extended period of time, a trip to the doctor's office may be in order to find a more aggressive elbow pain cure.
Tendinitis occurs when the tendons around the joint become inflamed. This most commonly occurs due to overuse or improper use. In most cases, the RICE treatment can help alleviate pain, but in more severe cases, a doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or even a steroid injection to relieve pain. A proper stretching routine before and after physical activity can go a long way toward preventing tendinitis in the elbow or other parts of the body.
Injuries due to falls or impacts can cause fractures in the bones of the elbow. If a fracture occurs, the elbow pain cure may be rest and immobilization. More severe fractures may need to be reset by a doctor, or surgery may be necessary. Pain from a fracture can be quite intense, so a doctor may also prescribe painkillers. Fractures can lead to other types of elbow pain, such as nerve damage or muscle or ligament tears.
Bursitis occurs when a fluid-filled sac called a bursa inflames. This bursa helps tissues inside the joint move across each other smoothly. When the bursa becomes inflamed, pain is often felt behind the elbow. A cortisone injection can help alleviate the pain, as can anti-inflammatory medications, light stretching and physical therapy to correct abnormal movement within the joint.