How Long Does Elbow Pain Treatment Take?
When conditions are right, elbow pain usually improves within 4 weeks. However, it may take longer if you’ve had frequent recurrences or received steroid injections.
When Recovery Is Quick
Recently Started Hurting
Recovery is quick when treated soon after symptoms begin.
No Previous Recurrences
Treatment duration differs between first-time pain and multiple recurrences.
Never Had Steroid Injections
Steroid injections temporarily reduce pain but weaken tendon tissue, making recovery difficult.
When Recovery Takes Longer
May Not Be Just an Elbow Problem
Often problems in the neck, shoulder, wrist, etc. cause overload on the elbow. When these compensation patterns exist, the causative areas must be treated together. The more causative areas and the farther they are, the longer treatment takes.
Factors Affecting Treatment Duration
| Factor | Quick Recovery | Longer Recovery |
|---|---|---|
| Symptom Duration | Recent onset | Several months or more |
| Recurrences | First time or once | Multiple recurrences |
| Steroid Injections | Never received | Received multiple times |
| Causative Areas | Elbow only | Neck, shoulder, multiple areas |
Early Treatment Shortens Duration
Most cases improve within 4 weeks when treated as soon as pain starts. Don’t endure it. Come in quickly.
Circulation Treatment for Elbow Pain
- Circulation HD treats tendon inflammation and promotes tissue regeneration
- Circulation PT uses progressive strengthening exercises and work pattern correction
Frequently Asked Questions
Elbow recovery follows this order
Recovery timing varies, but the sequence of what improves is nearly always the same.
- Resting pain disappears first. The ache that shows up even at rest settles in weeks 1-2.
- Tenderness eases next. The spot hurts less when pressed, around weeks 2-4.
- Light-use pain fades. Lifting a cup or opening a door gets easier in weeks 3-5.
- Power movements return last. Heavier loads and repetitive tasks come back over weeks 4-8.
References
- Smidt N et al. Corticosteroid injections, physiotherapy, or a wait-and-see policy for lateral epicondylitis: a randomised controlled trial. Lancet. 2002;359(9307):657-662.
- Bisset L et al. A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials on physical interventions for lateral epicondylalgia. Br J Sports Med. 2005;39(7):411-422.
- Pienimäki T et al. Long-term follow-up of conservatively treated chronic tennis elbow patients: a prospective and retrospective analysis. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 2001;82(8):1090-1096.