Epicondylitis, also known as tennis elbow, is a condition that affects many people, not just those who play sports like tennis or padel. This is a tendon tear that extends from the forearm to the outside of the elbow and causes joint pain and stiffness.
We would like to emphasize that we are not doctors and that these advice are not intended to replace the opinion of a professional. However, there are some epicondylitis home remedies which can help relieve pain and speed up the healing process.
In this article we will provide you with some practical tips to relieve the symptoms of epicondylitis, including stretching exercises, hot and cold compresses, massage and the use of natural remedies such as arnica oil and aloe vera gel. In addition, we will give you some tips on how to avoid making the situation worse and how to gradually return to practicing your favorite sport.
What is Epicondylitis
Epicondylitis, or "tennis elbow," is one painful condition that occurs when the elbow tendons are overloaded, usually due to repetitive wrist and arm movements. Despite its name, athletes aren't the only ones prone to developing epicondylitis; those who do jobs that involve repetitive elbow motions can also develop this condition, such as plumbers, painters, carpenters, and butchers.
Epicondylitis pain manifests itself mainly where the tendons of the forearm muscles attach to a bony bump on the outside of the elbow. The pain can also spread to the forearm and wrist, making everyday activities like shaking hands or holding a glass difficult.
Rest and take painkillers over the counter can often help soothe epicondylitis. If conservative treatments don't help or if symptoms are disabling, your doctor may suggest surgery.
However, it is important to note that these they are only general advice and that in case of suspicion of epicondylitis it is always advisable to consult a specialized doctor, who will be able to prescribe specific therapy based on the severity of the disorder.
Epicondylitis is caused by one overexertion and inflammation of the tendons in the elbow. Repeated contractions of the forearm muscles used to extend and lift the hand and wrist can cause a series of small tears in the tendons that attach to the bony bump on the outside of the elbow.
Although the name suggests that it is only caused by playing tennis, there are many other activities that can cause epicondylitis, such as using plumbing tools, painting, working with screws, preparing cooking ingredients, especially meat, and repeated use of the computer mouse.
Factors such as age and type of job can increase the risk of developing epicondylitis. The condition usually affects people between the ages of 30 and 50, but it is possible that it also develops at a younger or older age. Also, some sporting activities, such as playing with a racket, can increase the risk of developing epicondylitis, especially if the wrong playing technique is used.
Epicondylitis Padel: Grandma's Remedies
Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition affecting the elbow that can be caused by a variety of factors, including overuse of the arm and wrist in repetitive activities such as tennis, padel, or office work. Fortunately, there are some solutions that can help reduce pain and inflammation.
The first step is to rest your elbow and avoid the activities that caused the injury. This may seem obvious, but often tissue repair takes some time and rest your elbow it is the best thing to do to prevent the situation from worsening.
Applying ice packs it can help reduce swelling and pain. It is recommended to wrap the ice in a cloth or towel and apply it to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, to be repeated 3-4 times a day.
Furthermore, compression can help reduce muscle fatigue. You can wrap the affected area with an elastic band tight enough to feel the compression. If the temperature and skin color of the forearm are different from the rest of the arm or the other arm, it is necessary remove the bandage immediately.
Light stretching exercises can help improve flexibility in your arm and hand. Extend arm forward and bring hand as if stopping a movement, then pull gently fingers towards the arm for about 15 seconds. Relax and repeat. The opposite exercise is to extend the arm keeping it straight and drop the hand so that it is below the wrist, with the palm facing the body. Exercise one light pressure on the hand pushing it towards the body, relax and repeat.
If the pain persists, you can use painkillers over the counter as the ibuprofen or the naproxen. However, it matters follow the instructions of the doctor and the leaflet to avoid side effects, such as nausea.
Furthermore, i braces can provide additional support to the affected area. It is recommended that you speak to a physical therapist or your doctor to choose the right type of brace and to understand how to apply it correctly.
Finally, if your lateral epicondylitis is caused by a specific activity, you can try to adapt the technique or equipment used. For example, athletes can consult their coach to improve their playing technique and adopt the most suitable equipment, while office workers can try to make their work environment more ergonomic and safe.
If you are looking for the best rackets from padel to prevent epicondylitis, you can find them here.
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