Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.
How can you care for your child at home?
Encourage your child to rest their fingers, wrist, and forearm. Try to stop or reduce any activity that causes elbow pain. Your child may have to rest the arm for weeks to months. Follow your doctor's directions for how long to rest.
Put ice or a cold pack on the elbow for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Try to do this every 1 to 2 hours for the next 3 days (when your child is awake). Put a thin cloth between the ice and your child's skin. You can try heat, or alternating heat and ice, after the first 3 days.
If your doctor gave you a brace or splint, use it as directed. A "counterforce" brace is a strap around the forearm, just below the elbow. It may ease the pressure on the tendon and may spread force throughout the arm.
Prop up the arm on pillows to help reduce swelling.
Follow your doctor's or physical therapist's directions for exercise.
Have your child return to usual activities slowly.
Try to prevent the problem. Have your child learn the best techniques for the sport. For example, make sure the grip on the tennis racquet is not too big for your child's hand. Encourage your child not to hit a tennis ball late in their swing.
Medicine
Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.
If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.
Store your child’s prescription pain medicines where no one else can get to them. When you are done using them, dispose of them quickly and safely. Your local pharmacy or hospital may have a drop-off site.
Your child may take anti-inflammatory medicines, such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), to reduce pain and swelling. Read and follow all instructions on the label.
When should you call for help?
Contact your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:
Your child's pain is worse.
Your child cannot bend the elbow normally.
Your child's arm or hand is cool or pale or changes color.
Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Clinical Review Board All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.
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