How to treat tennis elbow at home? Is that even possible, considering how grave the condition can be? Find out the answers to all of your questions!
Since it can appear at any time if we perform repetitive movements with the joint, it is essential to know some remedies to calm tennis elbow naturally
Tennis elbow is an inflammation that occurs in the tendons of the elbow and that is not only suffered by athletes. Although the treatment to calm tennis elbow often requires specialists, as first aid you can use natural remedies that will help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the joint.
What is tennis elbow?
Lateral epicondylitis, better known as tennis elbow, is a disease that occurs in the elbow when it is subjected to extreme use, according to this study by the Dr. Peset University Hospital (Valencia).
Generally, athletes who play tennis tend to suffer from this disease. However, any activity that involves continuous use of this joint carries the risk of suffering from it.
When suffering from tennis elbow, the tendons between the muscles of the forearm and the outside of the elbow become inflamed. This occurs when certain movements are repeated frequently, causing pain and tenderness in the elbow.
To calm tennis elbow, you need the assistance of physiotherapists (as suggested by this study carried out by the San Antonio de Murcia Catholic University) and even surgeons when the injury is very strong.
How to treat tennis elbow at home?
Natural remedies are also a great option that allows you to calm tennis elbow, and even in the mildest cases, to control it completely. Here we bring you five of them.
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Ginger compresses
Ginger has multiple properties used by natural medicine to treat different diseases. It is used to relieve colds and, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, it is used to reduce inflammation of the muscles and tendons. This is how this research from the Isfahan University (Iran) assures it.
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons of grated ginger (60 g)
- 1 cotton bag
- 1 glass of hot water (200 ml)
What should you do?
First, grate the ginger to 4 tablespoons.
Then wrap the ginger in a cotton bag and soak the compress in hot water for a minute.
Next, remove the compress from the water and let it cool.
Finally, apply on the affected area for 15 minutes and repeat until you get some improvement.
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Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy to soothe tennis elbow consists of using hot and cold water compresses on the affected area. The heat will relieve pain and activate circulation, while the cold water will deflate the muscles and tendons.
Ingredients
- 1 zip-lock bag
- 2 thin towels
- 2 containers
- Ice cubes
- 2 cups of water (500 ml)
What should you do?
First, heat enough water in a container, pour it into a bag and seal it tightly.
Then wrap the bag in a towel.
Wrap ice cubes in a different towel.
Next, apply the warm compress to your elbow for three minutes.
Then remove the hot compress and apply the cold one for a minute.
Finally, alternate both for half an hour.
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Turmeric
Curcumin, an ingredient in turmeric, has anti-inflammatory properties, according to this study from Central Michigan University. Like ginger, it also acts as a natural pain reliever. In addition, it contains a large amount of antioxidants that accelerate the healing of injuries, which is why it is widely used to treat joints.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon of turmeric powder (15 g)
- 1 cup of milk (250 ml)
- ½ tablespoon of honey (12 g)
What should you do?
First, in a cup of liquid milk add a tablespoon of turmeric and mix it.
Next, heat the mixture over low heat and add the honey.
Lastly, drink one cup in the morning and one in the evening for at least 2 weeks.
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Infusion of St. John’s wort
St. John’s wort is a plant widely used by naturopathic medicine to reduce inflammation. It has very outstanding anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Thanks to its easy use, it can be used as an infusion, compresses or supplements.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of crushed St. John’s wort leaves (30 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml)
- Sweetener (to taste)
What should you do?
First, heat a cup of water and when it is about to boil, add the tablespoons of St. John’s wort.
Let it rest.
Then strain the mixture.
Finally, sweeten to taste and drink at least two cups a day.
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Garlic compresses
Garlic is known to activate circulation and treat cardiovascular diseases. In addition, because it contains a large amount of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds and sulfur, it is a natural remedy to soothe tennis elbow. This is stated in this study carried out by the “Ramón de la Fuente” National Institute of Psychiatry (Mexico).
The downside that some will see in garlic is its strong smell, but compared to the benefits it brings, it’s worth it.
Ingredients
- 5 cloves of garlic
- Towels
What should you do?
First, peel the garlic.
Then mash them into a paste.
Then, apply it to the affected area and place the towel on it.
Finally, leave it to act for 20 minutes.
The elbows are exposed to many muscle injuries. It is best to avoid sudden movements and take all the necessary safety precautions. However, when an injury occurs, it is good to know what to do to give first aid and relieve pain.
Homemade natural remedies help a lot when it comes to calming tennis elbow and reducing inflammation. If you do not get relief, do not hesitate to go to a specialist.
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