Are you suffering from elbow swelling, tenderness, pain, or limited range of motion? Are these symptoms of elbow bursitis, also known as “olecranon bursitis,” affecting your daily life? ? Don’t worry. Simple and effective home treatments such as ice therapy, rest, and compression can relieve symptoms and speed recovery in mild cases. If your symptoms do not improve, see your doctor.
Explore effective elbow bursitis treatments at home to help manage your symptoms.
Treating elbow bursitis at home: 10 effective relief strategies
Consider these home treatments to help you move more easily and return to your normal activities with less discomfort.
1. Rest your elbow
-
Avoid activities that worsen symptoms such as inflammation, and give your elbow a rest.
-
A brace or splint is used to immobilize and support the affected joint and prevent pressure on the elbow.
manner: Avoid lifting heavy objects or staying in the same position for long periods of time, and give your elbows a rest. Additionally, it limits movement to speed healing.
2. Try ice therapy
-
the study Ice therapy says it reduces pain by reducing swelling.
-
Use an ice pack or cold compress to apply this therapy.
manner: Wrap an ice pack in a cloth and apply it to the affected area for about 20 minutes. Repeat this process many times a day. To reduce the risk of frostbite, avoid applying ice directly to your skin.
3. Use compression
-
Compression bandages apply very gentle pressure to the affected area.
-
This reduces swelling, reduces pain, and supports your elbow for daily activities.
How to use: Wrap a compression sleeve or elastic bandage around your elbow. Do not wrap it too tightly as this may restrict blood flow. Compression reduces pain and swelling and stabilizes the joint.
4. Raise your elbows
manner: Elevate your elbows by placing a soft pillow or cushion under them, especially when lying down. For effective results, try to raise your elbows higher than your heart level.
5. Take over-the-counter pain medication
-
Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and acetaminophen can help relieve elbow pain.
-
Additionally, these medications can also be used to reduce inflammation, ensuring comfort during recovery.
How to take: Use the medicine according to the directions on the package label. Do not use more than the recommended dosage as it may cause certain side effects such as nausea, allergic reactions, and upset stomach.
6. Practice gentle stretching and strengthening exercises
-
Once the swelling has subsided, practice stretching and also perform gentle strengthening exercises such as forearm stretches and elbow flexion aids.
-
These exercises can also strengthen the flexibility of the elbow and prevent sudden deterioration of the condition in the future.
manner:
-
Forearm stretch: Place your hands on a table with your palms facing you and extend your arms. Hold for 20 seconds and repeat 3 times.
-
Assist with elbow flexion: Bend your elbow to a very comfortable position and press gently with your other hand. Hold for 20 seconds and repeat 3 times.
7. Use a warm compress
-
After the initial stage of inflammation (usually 48 to 72 hours after inflammation), use chiropads or warm compresses.
-
Helps improve blood flow and minimize stiffness in the elbow joint.
How to use: Apply a heating pad or compress to the injured area for 15 to 20 minutes. Consider using this heat therapy after the swelling has subsided.
8. Apply an OTC anti-inflammatory cream or gel
-
Use topical anti-inflammatory gels or creams containing NSAIDs, capsaicin, or menthol such as diclofenac
-
These active ingredients relieve pain and minimize inflammation at the injury site.
How to use: Apply gel or cream to the affected area. Follow the instructions on the package label.
9. Avoid stimulating activities
-
Avoid repetitive movements and direct pressure on the elbow, as this can worsen symptoms.
-
Adjust your exercise and work routines to reduce the risk of further inflammation.
manner: Be careful if you frequently bend your elbows or lie on hard surfaces. If your job requires repetitive elbow movements, adjust your position or use protective elbow pads.
10. Change your lifestyle
-
Please stop smoking. a study They report that smoking can reduce blood flow and therefore slow the healing process.
-
Also, maintain a healthy diet that provides important nutrients and speeds recovery.
manner: Quit smoking and focus more on healthy eating. Eat green vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts or salmon and walnuts. They have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation and pain.
Now that we’ve discussed the best home treatments, let’s take a look at when you might need professional care.
When should I see a doctor?
Although mild cases can be effectively managed with home treatment, it is important to seek professional help if:
-
Symptoms worsen or persist
-
If swelling or severe pain suddenly increases
-
Swelling is accompanied by signs of infection, such as drainage, increased redness, and warmth.
-
I noticed that I had a rash or bruise.
-
If you have a fever or chills
Note: Your doctor may recommend treatments such as antibiotics, corticosteroid injections, or (in rare cases of chronic cases) surgery such as a bursectomy or osteotomy.
Understanding the causes and symptoms of elbow bursitis
Understanding the causes and symptoms can help with early intervention and prevention.
Causes of elbow bursitis
Causes include:
-
Repetitive movements of the elbow joint (such as during work or sports)
-
Prolonged compression of the elbow (seen when leaning against a hard surface)
-
Elbow injury or trauma that causes inflammation
-
Infection of tissue near the burr
Symptoms of elbow bursitis
Symptoms include:
-
Pain or tenderness around the injured area.
-
Movement of the elbow joint is restricted
-
swelling around the elbow
-
Redness and warmth in the swollen area
Tips to prevent elbow bursitis
Consider the following precautions to avoid bursitis in the future:
-
Avoid overusing your elbows as much as possible
-
Follow appropriate techniques and postures for work and sports activities.
-
Avoid kneeling or sitting for long periods of time as this puts stress on your joints.
-
If your job requires you to prop up on your elbows or kneel, wear elbow pads or use a cushion.
-
Take breaks between tasks that require repetitive elbow movements
summary
Rest, ice therapy, warm compresses, over-the-counter pain relievers, topical gels or creams, and gentle exercise are effective ways to manage the discomfort, especially for those wishing to treat elbow bursitis at home. A home solution. These treatments can provide significant relief and help alleviate symptoms. Relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and restore elbow mobility and strength. However, if the symptoms persist for a long time, please see a doctor for proper treatment.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with a friend who needs it or save it for later.
Also read: Supraspinatus Tendonitis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment
FAQ
What is the fastest way to cure elbow bursitis?
Rest and over-the-counter pain medications are the best ways to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with elbow bursitis.
Can elbow bursitis heal naturally?
Yes, most cases heal on their own in 3 to 6 weeks with proper rest and other home treatments.
What foods make bursitis worse?
Foods high in fat, sugar, and processed foods can make bursitis worse.
Can I drain bursitis myself?
No, you cannot do it yourself as it may increase the risk of infection.
How can you tell if it’s bursitis or tendonitis?
Bursitis can be painful even when you’re at rest, while tendonitis can be painful when you move your elbow.