1. Seek Help at the First Signs of Pain
Too many bowlers wait to treat bowler's tendonitis. This only prolongs treatment and recovery periods. Take action at the first sign of pain. See your doctor or orthopedic specialist whenever you experience any of these symptoms; a dull ache after bowling a few games or pain that goes away after bowling a few games, a piercing pain that occurs whenever you move the joint affected. Getting to a medical professional as soon as symptoms appear may help you avoid a more serious and cumulative injury to your joint, which may put you out of the game permanently.
2. Reduce the Swelling
Attack the inflammation is the course of action many doctors take. TYou can accomplish this with ice and sometimes anti-inflammatory drugs. Most of the time doctors don't recommend cortisone shots, which can sometimes deteriorate the joint. This, along with some physical therapy will get you back in the game.
3. Take a Little Time Off
Although you might not like the idea, stay away from the lanes for a while. Getting out of the game for at least a few months lets your tendons heal properly and gives your body a break from the repetitive motion that bowling requires. Tendonitis is one such repetitive motion injury and is a direct result, most times, of the amount of time throwing the ball. Since it is the small, cumulative damage that causes tendonitis, avoid the lanes and you'll heal much quicker. Follow all your doctor's orders when it comes to your off time as well, so you'll be that much stronger when you do get back into the game. Make sure you do all your physical therapy exercises and follow your PT specialist's directions as well.
4. Change Your Approach
Take charge by altering your approach on the line. Have a bowling coach look at your back swing, throw and spin technique and see what could be causing the damage to your joint. Of course do this on a day when you've rested the joint and only after a doctor's OK to get back in the game. Some habits on the approach cause tendonitis, such as twisting your arm on the back swing, or turning your foot when sliding to the line. Work with your coach to change up your approach to avoid these damaging habits.
5. Try Other Activities
Take a break from the lanes and you may find yourself enjoying a brisk walk in the park, or biking on some trails. Resting the joint doesn't mean you must stop all physical activity. Find a sport that doesn't require you to move the joint affected by tendonitis, but clear it with your doctor first. Of course, that sport probably shouldn't be tennis, especially if you are experiencing the pain in your elbow.
