Doctors Note Logo

Back

Published on: 5/26/2025

What should I do if my elbows hurt all the time?

Most people with ongoing elbow pain can improve with rest, proper exercises, and sometimes medications like NSAIDs. It’s important to see a doctor to create a plan that fits your needs.

answer background

Explanation

If your elbows hurt all the time, several care steps might help. First, try resting your elbow and applying ice to reduce any swelling. Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs, can sometimes help lessen pain and inflammation. Gentle exercises and stretches, as advised by a physical therapist, may improve strength and movement in the elbow. Research suggests that structured exercise programs and physical therapies can help many patients with lateral elbow problems. In some cases, if symptoms do not improve with these non-surgical treatments, a doctor might explore more specific options, including further evaluation for underlying issues. Surgery is usually considered only if the pain is severe and does not respond to other treatments. It is best to have your elbow evaluated by a healthcare provider who can review your symptoms and history. They may suggest a combination of methods—like medication, rest, exercise, or physical therapy—to help relieve your pain and restore function. This approach is supported by research that shows conservative management often leads to good results in people with elbow pain.

(References)

  • Buchbinder R, Johnston RV, Barnsley L, Assendelft WJ, Bell SN, Smidt N. Surgery for lateral elbow pain. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2011 Mar 16;2011(3):CD003525. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003525.pub2. PMID: 21412883; PMCID: PMC7154580.

  • Pattanittum P, Turner T, Green S, Buchbinder R. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) for treating lateral elbow pain in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013 May 31;2013(5):CD003686. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD003686.pub2. PMID: 23728646; PMCID: PMC7173751.

  • Taylor SA, Hannafin JA. Evaluation and management of elbow tendinopathy. Sports Health. 2012 Sep;4(5):384-93. doi: 10.1177/1941738112454651. PMID: 23016111; PMCID: PMC3435941.

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

smily Shiba-inu looking

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Learn more about symptoms

Elbow pain

Not sure about the cause of your current symptoms?

AI Symptom Check

Try our AI-based symptom checker

With an easy 3-min questionnaire, you can get a free AI-powered report on possible causes


Tips to try:

  • Provide specific, detailed info about all symptoms you have.
  • Give accurate information about yourself including current conditions.
  • Answer all follow-up questions

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor’s Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.