What cream for tennis elbow?

For tennis elbow, prescription-based anti-inflammatory creams are often recommended, and pharmacists can also create custom compounds with specific ingredients like lidocaine and gabapentin to address nerve pain.

Understanding Topical Creams for Tennis Elbow Management

Topical creams offer a targeted approach to managing the pain and inflammation associated with tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis). These creams deliver active ingredients directly to the affected area, which can be an effective way to alleviate symptoms without affecting the entire body.

Types of Effective Topical Creams

• Prescription Anti-Inflammatory Creams:
  A primary recommendation for tennis elbow pain includes prescription-based anti-inflammatory creams. These topical medications are designed to reduce inflammation and pain directly at the source, offering focused treatment. Your doctor can prescribe the most suitable option based on your specific condition and severity of symptoms.

• Custom Compounded Creams:
  In some cases, a pharmacist might prepare a custom compounded cream tailored to your specific needs. These specialized formulations can include a combination of active ingredients to address different aspects of pain, particularly if nerve involvement is suspected.

  • Key ingredients often found in custom compounds for nerve pain include:
    • Lidocaine: A local anesthetic that numbs the area, providing immediate pain relief.
    • Gabapentin: While commonly used orally for nerve pain, it can be included in topical compounds to target localized nerve-related discomfort.

Benefits of Topical Treatment for Tennis Elbow

Choosing topical creams over oral medications presents significant advantages, primarily related to avoiding systemic side effects. Oral medications, especially those taken long-term, can sometimes lead to issues like stomach upset, kidney problems, or other systemic adverse reactions. Topical applications deliver the medication locally, minimizing absorption into the bloodstream and thereby reducing the risk of these broader side effects.

For more information on the various treatments for tennis elbow, including topical options, you can consult reputable health resources such as the Mayo Clinic's guide on tennis elbow treatment.