Published on: 5/26/2025
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.
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.
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