What Is Tennis Elbow and How Can Ayurveda Help in Managing It? - #15004
A few months ago, I started experiencing pain and tenderness on the outside of my elbow, especially after lifting or using my arm for extended periods. I visited a doctor who diagnosed me with tennis elbow, a condition caused by overuse of the tendons in the elbow. The doctor recommended rest and physiotherapy, but the pain hasn’t completely gone away, and I’m finding it difficult to get back to my regular activities. I’ve heard that Ayurveda offers natural remedies for managing conditions like tennis elbow. Can Ayurvedic treatments help reduce inflammation, promote healing of the tendons, and relieve pain from tennis elbow? I’ve read that herbs like Ashwagandha and Turmeric can help reduce inflammation—could these be beneficial in my case? I’m also curious if there are Ayurvedic oils or therapies, such as massage with Mahanarayan oil or the use of hot and cold compresses, that can help in the healing process. Are there specific stretches or exercises in Ayurveda that can aid in strengthening the elbow and preventing further injury? Has anyone here had tennis elbow and found relief through Ayurvedic remedies or lifestyle changes? What treatments, oils, or practices worked for you in managing pain and promoting healing?
100% Anonymous
completely confidential.
No sign-up needed.

Doctors’ responses
Ayurveda offers several natural remedies for managing tennis elbow, which can help reduce inflammation, promote tendon healing, and relieve pain. Herbs like Ashwagandha and Turmeric are well-known for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties, which can help reduce swelling and support tissue repair. Ashwagandha helps in strengthening muscles and tendons, while Turmeric aids in alleviating pain and inflammation. Additionally, Ayurvedic oils like Mahanarayan oil and Eucalyptus oil can be used for gentle massage on the affected elbow to improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and accelerate healing. Ayurveda also recommends using hot compresses to relax muscles and increase blood flow and cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain. For long-term relief, Ayurvedic practices like gentle stretches and yoga poses that focus on the wrists, elbows, and shoulders can help strengthen the tendons, improve flexibility, and prevent further injury. These treatments, alongside physiotherapy, can help speed up recovery and prevent future flare-ups of tennis elbow.
Tennis elbow, that persistent ache on the outside of your elbow, can be quite the annoyance, especially since you’re eager to get back to your routine. It’s great you’re open to exploring Ayurveda for relief! In Ayurveda, tennis elbow is often seen as a result of an aggravated Vata dosha, leading to the dryness and rigidity in the tendons and muscles.
Absolutely, herbs like Ashwagandha and Turmeric can be very beneficial. Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is known for strengthening tendons and reducing inflammation. Try taking a tea spoon of ashwagandha powder mixed with warm milk before bed. Turmeric, with its anti-inflammatory properties, can be added to your diet— aim for about a 1/2 teaspoon in food or as a warm turmeric milk.
As for oils, Mahanarayan oil is indeed helpful. Warm it slightly and massage it gently on the affected area daily. A good time would be right before bed. Follow this with a gentle compress— alternate between warm and cold for about 15 minutes to soothe inflammation.
For stretching, focus on gentle exercises. Ayurvedic tradition recommends Greeva Sanchalana (neck exercises) and wrist rotation to improve circulation and flexibility… But start slow, easing into more intense stretches as pain subsides.
Don’t neglect diet either. Keep it Vata-pacifying— warm, cooked foods are ideal, and consider avoiding raw, cold, or very dry foods. Adequate hydration’s key too.
Healing takes time. Combine these remedies with rest, let your body do it’s thing, and evaluate any significant pain or changes with a healthcare professional. Ayurveda’s approach is holistic, so be patient with yourself as you try these suggestions—aim for balance in all things. If these measures help at all, or if you have more questions, I’m always here to chat!

100% Anonymous
600+ certified Ayurvedic experts. No sign-up.
About our doctors
Only qualified ayurvedic doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.