How to Heal Tennis Elbow



How to Heal Tennis Elbow

Step 1

Stop doing the activity that caused your tennis elbow. Although tennis elbow can be caused by playing tennis, the full range of potential causes is far larger. Any physical activity you perform that involves repetitive motions with your elbow can cause tennis elbow. It’s important that you stop doing this activity so your elbow heals. Non-tennis-related activities that can cause tennis elbow include:
Lifting or carrying heavy loads
Daily computer and keyboard usage
Sports like basketball or hockey
Plumbing, gardening, or painting

Step 2

Modify repetitive actions if you cannot stop performing them. In some instances, your tennis elbow may have been caused by an action that’s part of your job or your daily life. If that’s the case, look for ways to modify the activity and cut down on the amount of strain you put on your elbow.
For example, if you work in construction, your job may depend on you being able to carry heavy bags of cement. Try to modify the activity by having someone else help you carry bags or using a wheelbarrow to lug them around.

Step 3

Rest your elbow for at least 1 week. It’s crucial that you give the damaged tendons time to recover and heal themselves. Do this by avoiding any activities that strain your elbow. Try not to lift anything heavy with your injured arm. If you can, minimize your computer and keyboard usage. Also try to find ways to physically rest your arm as you go about your day, so you don’t put unnecessary strain on the tendons in your elbow.
For example, if you're sitting on a sofa or in an armchair, keep the elbow elevated on the arm of the chair. Or, if that's not comfortable, try propping up the elbow with 2-3 pillows when sitting in an armchair.

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