Elbow pain may be due to several factors, so it's essential to know what the underlying reason of discomfort is before applying a specific remedy. According to the Mayo Clinic, elbow pain may be caused by injury, arthritis or tendinitis. If elbow pain gets worse, makes bending the arm difficult or begins for no apparent reason, contact a health-care provider.
Ice
One of the most typical remedies that can be used to treat pain in the elbow is the application of ice. Cold compresses may also be used. If pain in the elbow is caused by swelling, ice will reduce swelling and inflammation. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, after an injury or when noticeable signs of pain occur, it's advisable to apply ice to the affected area for 15 minutes at a time, once every hour. After the first day, cut back on icing the affected area to a maximum of four times per day. Elbow pain that occurs due to injury--such as damage done to a tendon or ligament--can be treated in this way. Diseases that cause inflammation in the joints--bursitis for example--will also benefit from the application of ice.
Rest
Rest can be an effective remedy for injury that is caused by repetitive movement, damage or overuse. Diseases such as bursitis--an inflammation of one or more bursa sacs among joints--will benefit from resting the afflicted area, according to the Mayo Clinic. Tendons and muscles in the elbow that have been damaged need time to repair, and resting prevents further damage to the area. Keeping the elbow immobilized with a sling may also help prevent further damage. Wearing an elbow brace or compressing the area with an elastic Band-Aid can help prevent fluid from building up in the joints if there is swelling present. Try keeping the elbow in an area where it will not be bumped or forced to bend in an awkward way.
Anti-inflammatory Drugs
To help reduce the discomfort and pain in the elbow, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, may be taken. NSAIDS include ibuprofen and naproxen. It's important to understand that even though these drugs may temporarily relieve pain, they can also cause side effects in certain individuals. Typically these side effects occur when improper does are administered or the drugs are taken longer than necessary, according to the Mayo Clinic. Regarding pain medications, if not sure about the amount of dosage or how long to take them, consult the label on the product or a doctor for more information. It is not advisable to take more than the recommended amount.
