Elbow pain

Updated: 2023-05-24

Description

Physical discomfort in the elbow joint, or in the muscles, tendons and ligaments supporting it.

Self-care

Place an ice pack on the area for up to 20 minutes, three times a day. Keep the elbow elevated and wrap in compression bandage to reduce swelling. Pain medicines may help.

When to seek immediate medical care

See a health care professional immediately if:

• Severe pain or swelling.
• Obvious deformity or suspected bone break.

When to make a doctor's appointment

Make an appointment to see a health care professional if:

• No improvement with home care.
• Pain persists or worsens.
• Redness or swelling.