Elbow tendinitis is the inflammation of the tendon that attaches the triceps muscle, or the muscle in the back of the upper arm, to the lower arm. Additionally, elbow tendinitis can affect the biceps tendon located in the front of the elbow. Elbow tendinitis occurs due to overuse or injury of the elbow joint, states Medline Plus, of the National Institutes of Health. This condition is most common in athletes, specifically in sports that involve excessive throwing. Elbow tendinitis is usually treated with conservative measures. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.
Rest
Many cases of elbow tendinitis will heal on their own with rest. A patient with elbow tendinitis should take a break from physical activities that involve excessive elbow movement. In addition, he should avoid weight lifting, or lifting other heavy objects that may aggravate the tendons in the elbow. He should try to use his other arm as much as possible to perform daily tasks. Once the pain subsides, he can slowly return to activities that involve the elbow.
Ice
The Mayo Clinic states that ice therapy is an effective treatment for elbow tendinitis. Ice will reduce pain, inflammation and swelling in the elbow joint. An ice pack or a pack of frozen vegetables should be applied to the painful tendon for 20 minutes, and then removed for 20 minutes. This cycle should be repeated as often as possible for the first 48 hours after injury or flare-up of tendinitis.
Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications may be used to treat tendinitis. Specifically, anti-inflammatory mediations, such as Aleve, Advil or Motrin can be used to reduce inflammation along the tendon. Although these medications may be effective, a patient should consult his doctor before taking this medication because it can cause liver problems, kidney problems, or bleeding problems.
In more severe cases, or in cases that do not improve, a doctor may recommend corticosteroid injections. This procedure involves the doctor injecting corticosteroids directly into the inflamed tendon. Ideally, the corticosteroids will reduce inflammation and relieve tendinitis.
Physical Therapy
A physical therapist may be recommended for relief of tendinitis. A physical therapist can teach a patient exercises to treat elbow tendinitis. In addition, the therapist may teach ways to prevent future flare-ups. Seeing a therapist can be effective only if that patient makes a commitment to attend all sessions and to perform exercises at home.
