There are instances when we are involved in a mishap or some other event that can cause us a great deal of misery and discomfort. Though the issue might not be a serious one, it causes excruciating pain to the individual till the time it lasts. For instance, a sprained ankle or wrist can cause a great amount of pain, though it is not something very serious, it does cause pain and discomfort to the individual.

One such condition that affects people and causes a great deal of pain is the tennis elbow. Do not be misguided by the name, though tennis elbow is a condition that usually affects athletes. A regular person can also suffer from this condition. As the name suggests, this condition arises when the elbows are affected, especially the outer part of the elbow.

Causes of tennis elbow
Tennis elbow or tendinitis is a condition that causes swelling of the tendons which causes pain in the elbow and arm. This condition arises when we perform repetitive motions since this can strain the muscles and exert more pressure on the tendons. People who are into sports like tennis or racquetball are more prone to this condition.

Treatment for tennis elbow
Pain and tenderness in the elbow section are indicative of the presence of this condition, and in severe cases, people opt for surgery. But, surgery is the last resort. Instead of directly opting for surgery, people can also choose non-surgical treatment for tennis elbow as an alternative.

Here are some effective non-surgical treatment methods for tennis elbow.

• Cold compress: Whenever there’s injury, there’s inflammation. To reduce inflammation caused due to the tennis elbow, apply a cold compress to the affected area. This is the easiest way to reduce the pain and swelling around the elbow. Do not apply ice directly to the area, keep a cloth between the compress and your skin.
• Contrast hydrotherapy: This non-surgical treatment for tennis elbow calls for alternating hot and cold compress on the affected area. The cold compress will ensure that the swelling subsides, whereas, the warm compress improves the blood circulation and thereby, reduces pain. It is advised to repeat the procedure for 15 to 20 minutes a few times throughout the day.
• Massage: Nothing beats the age-old massage therapy in case you experience physical or psychological distress. Massage is an effective way to reduce the inflammation and help the muscles around the elbows relax. It is advisable to use calendula oil in this endeavor since it possesses healing properties.
• Tennis elbow exercises: One might consider it impossible to perform simple stretches if he suffers from this condition. But, tennis elbow stretches, and exercises remain a popular non-surgical treatment method for tennis elbow. Moving the arm carefully and in calculated motions can actually reduce the stiffness and pain one experiences. However, in severe cases, it is advisable not to perform these exercises without consulting the physician beforehand.
• Acupuncture: This form of Chinese treatment has been hailed for its effective results, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise if acupuncture is effective as a non-surgical treatment for tennis elbow. Those needles might indeed look frightening, but they are harmless and help in reducing the pain experienced when a person suffers from tennis elbow. It has proven to help people suffering from muscular pain, osteoarthritis, and chronic headaches, heave a sigh of relief.