Elbow joint pain is more common than many might believe, and this can be caused by minor things, as well as major problems and medical conditions. Any individual who uses their elbow frequently, including playing sports and work activities, may get a sore elbow joint once in a while. If this pain lasts for more than a week, gets worse instead of better, or becomes so severe that home treatments do not work any more, it is probably time to see your doctor and have it checked out. For all other elbow pain, there are many things that you can try which may be effective in relieving the pain and letting you get back to a normal life.
Elbow joint pain can be caused at times by overuse, and resting the arm along with stretching exercises may help to relieve pain and get your elbow back in shape. Light pain medications, such as Tylenol, Advil, or Motrin, can also reduce the pain and discomfort. Motrin and Advil also have the desired effect of bringing any swelling down, which will in turn relieve some of the pain. Ice packs and hot towels can be draped across the elbow, either alternately or by using the one which feels best, and this will also help reduce swelling and pain. Your doctor may also advise you to wrap the affected elbow in an ace bandage or other support wrap to cushion and protect the joint.
Elbow joint pain can become very severe, especially if joint damage is present. Sometimes your doctor may prescribe stronger medicine for your pain if this is the case, and if the damage is severe then joint replacement surgery may be the advisable option, to completely eliminate the joint pain and treat the underlying problem. Stretching exercises may be prescribed by your doctor to keep your joint flexible and stop it from stiffening up. Sometimes physical therapy may be needed, and if this is the case your physician will probably have to be the one to order this treatment. No matter what is causing your elbow pain, there are treatments available that can help you live pain free, or at least minimize the pain so that you can live a normal life.
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