Speeding up the healing of the tennis elbow involves a combination of self-care measures, treatment, and lifestyle modifications. Note that while these strategies can support healing, tennis elbow recovery time can vary from person to person.

Here are some tips to promote healing and reduce recovery time…

1. Rest and Avoid Overuse – Give your elbow adequate rest from activities that exacerbate the pain, especially those involving gripping or repetitive wrist movements.
2. Ice Therapy – Apply ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day to reduce inflammation and pain.
3. Compression – Consider using a tennis elbow brace or strap to provide support and reduce strain on the affected tendons.
4. Elevation – Elevate your arm whenever possible to reduce swelling.
5. Anti-Inflammatory Medications – Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Always follow the recommended dosage and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
6. Physical Therapy – Consult with a physical therapist who can design a customized exercise program to strengthen the muscles around the elbow and improve flexibility.
7. Massage and Manual Therapy – Gentle massage or manual therapy techniques may help reduce tension in the muscles and tendons.
8. Heat Therapy – Apply heat to the elbow before engaging in exercises or stretching to promote blood flow and increase tissue elasticity.
9. Ergonomic Modifications – Ensure your work or sports equipment is properly adjusted to reduce strain on the elbow.
10. Modify Activities – Temporarily avoid or modify activities that aggravate the pain until the elbow has healed.
11. Strengthening Exercises – Gradually incorporate eccentric and concentric strengthening exercises for the forearm muscles into your routine, as guided by a physical therapist.
12. Stretching – Perform gentle stretching exercises for the forearm and wrist muscles to improve flexibility.
13. Cross-Friction Massage – This technique involves applying pressure to the tendon while moving it against the grain to promote healing.
14. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) – ESWT is a non-invasive treatment that uses shockwaves to stimulate healing in damaged tissues. It can be beneficial for some individuals with chronic tennis elbow.
15. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy – In some cases, PRP injections may be recommended to promote tissue healing.

Consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, before trying any new treatments or exercises. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific condition and help monitor your progress. Patience and consistent adherence to the treatment plan are crucial for achieving successful healing of tennis elbow.