A physical exam is going to be the first task at hand when you visit a tennis elbow doctor. Typically, this is enough to confirm a suspected diagnosis. Otherwise, X-rays are required, and sometimes other imaging tests are required as well. While tennis elbow symptoms often remediate themselves over time, severe conditions may require surgery. Therefore, it is important to do everything you can to help speed up recovery from this condition.
Aside from what the doctor orders, there are certain natural steps you can take to help you recover from tennis elbow. For starters, you want to be sure you are getting adequate rest. Activities that can aggravate your elbow should be avoided at all costs.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to help reduce pain symptoms. These are better solutions than prescription medications, which can be addictive. You can also apply ice or an ice pack to your elbow from time to time to alleviate pain symptoms and swelling. If you use this home remedy, you can do it up to four times a day.
Always be mindful of proper techniques when engaged in any activities. You do not want to move your elbow in a way that risks further injury or hinders recovery. You need to take it easy while you recover from this condition. Thankfully, most people with tennis elbow see symptoms disappear on their own over time.
Do not count on your tennis elbow going away, however, without taking this condition seriously. Hearing that the condition typically goes away naturally can cause people to be too relaxed. If you notice symptoms worsening or anything else you need to mention to your doctor, make an appointment.
These days, telehealth appointments are available, and that might be helpful for quick check-ins. Use the ice pack strategy as often as necessary. Rest your elbow in the right position when you are sitting. Being mindful of your tennis elbow is what will help you recover more quickly.
You are likely to visit your family doctor first. He or she will address the symptoms and if necessary, recommend you see a specialist. If your doctor does make that recommendation, you are going to schedule an appointment with a tennis elbow doctor. Meanwhile, you are going to be doing everything you can to speed up your own recovery. You want to be more active again, and with the right precautions, you will be back out there in no time.