General Elbow Pain Advice

Elbow pain is very common and can usually be managed at home. Many people start to notice an improvement within a few weeks, although some elbow problems can take several months to settle. The advice below may help with many common elbow problems. Although elbow pain can be uncomfortable, most people recover without needing scans, injections or surgery.

Select one of the conditions to learn more about common elbow problems, how they are treated, and how our service can help. If you would like support from our team, you can refer yourself to physiotherapy.

Steps to take to recovery

Adjust Activities

Try to temporarily avoid movements or activities that aggravate the pain. If you have had a recent injury, your elbow may need a little time to settle. In the early stages, reducing activities that make your pain worse may help your symptoms settle.

Use Ice or Heat: Some people find heat or cold helps reduce pain. If you have had a recent injury it may help to apply an ice or cold pack (15-20 minutes a few times a day in the initial 48 hours). If you have a longer-standing issue, then heat packs may help soothe some of your pain. Do not apply ice or heat directly to your skin, and avoid using it for long periods to reduce the risk of burns.

Exercises

Start with gentle stretches to improve movement and reduce pain. Move within a comfortable range. Some mild discomfort during exercise is normal, but your symptoms should settle afterwards.

Keeping the elbow moving and the surrounding muscles active can help recovery. There are some simple elbow exercises available at Arthritis UK which may help. 

Pain Relief

Over-the-counter medicines: Over-the-counter pain relief may help you stay active. Always follow the advice provided with the medicine.

Topical creams: Some people find topical creams or gels helpful for short-term relief of pain and stiffness.

It is important to check whether you can take these medicines. If you are unsure whether you can take these medicines, speak to a pharmacist or another healthcare professional.

Our service

Our service offers a range of treatment options for elbow pain. Following your assessment, you will usually be given a graded exercise programme to complete at home. You may also have the option of joining one of our gym classes.

It is useful to know exercise programmes can take several months to improve symptoms. In certain circumstances we may offer corticosteroid injections, further investigations or a referral to a specialist if appropriate.

Lifestyle factors that influence health

Elbow pain can be influenced by your overall health. Staying active, getting enough sleep, managing stress and not smoking can all support recovery. You can find more advice on our Your Musculoskeletal Health webpage.

When to seek further advice

Some elbow problems need urgent medical assessment rather than physiotherapy. Please read the information below.

This information may not be appropriate for you if you have any of the following:

  • A recent injury or fall that has caused severe pain or a sudden loss of movement.
  • You cannot move your elbow after a fall or injury.
  • Your elbow is hot, red or swollen, especially if you also have a fever or feel generally unwell.
  • You felt or heard a pop while lifting something heavy and noticed a sudden change in the shape of your arm.

If you have any of these symptoms, contact NHS 111 as soon as possible for advice.