Ideally, your elbow should be raised above the level of your heart. [2] X Trustworthy Source MedlinePlus Collection of medical information sourced from the US National Library of Medicine Go to source
The cold from an ice pack can damage your skin if it is applied directly onto it without a cloth barrier.
A compression wrap can be worn for several days until the swelling subsides. Compression bandages can be purchased from your local pharmacy. You can either purchase it as a wrap or as a “sock” that slides onto your arm over your hand. Wrap the bandage from the bottom of your elbow towards the top, so you move the fluid towards your heart. [5] X Expert Source Jonathan Frank, MDSports Orthopedic Surgeon & Joint Preservation Specialist Expert Interview. 31 July 2020.
Note that acetaminophen will help ease the pain of an injured elbow but will not reduce the swelling.
Some topical NSAIDs can be purchased over-the-counter at your local pharmacy, while others require a prescription from your doctor. Topical NSAIDs should not be used to treat inflammation due to a fracture or torn tendon. Do not use topical NSAIDs if you have a history of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding since it is absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream. [8] X Trustworthy Source Harvard Medical School Harvard Medical School’s Educational Site for the Public Go to source Discontinue using topical NSAIDs if you experience redness, irritation, stomach or esophageal pain, or rash.
If you regularly carry out strenuous manual tasks at work, ask your employer if you can modify activities that may aggravate your elbow inflammation. You should also avoid leaning on your arm.
Your doctor can diagnose whether your elbow inflammation is due to a one-time injury, wear and tear, or a disease like arthritis. [12] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Your doctor may perform blood tests or an ultrasound scan or X-ray to determine the cause of your elbow inflammation. [13] X Trustworthy Source Johns Hopkins Medicine Official resource database of the world-leading Johns Hopkins Hospital Go to source Swelling may also be due to an infection, which your doctor will likely prescribe antibiotics for.
Your doctor can refer you to a physiotherapist in your area. Do not attempt rehabilitation exercises for your elbow without the recommendation of your doctor or physiotherapist.
Your doctor may give you a local anesthetic before the procedure to numb the area.
After the procedure, you should wear a compression bandage to prevent fluid from building up again.
Rehabilitation exercises are a crucial part of recovery from elbow surgery. [18] X Research source Surgery may involve one large incision or several small incisions, depending on your specific injury. Your doctor may recommend that you wear an elbow brace for several weeks while your arm heals from surgery.
