Started as tenis elbow but the pain is spreading… - #30506

In this case, it is crucial to first ensure there isn’t any structural or neurological damage that might need immediate attention. If there is numbness, weakness, or severe pain, consider visiting a healthcare professional as these symptoms may indicate something beyond the scope of traditional Ayurveda.

For symptom relief through Ayurveda, an imbalance in Vata dosha could be at the root. Ayurveda suggests that imbalances in Vata can lead to nerve disorders and muscular pain. It’s important to stabilize Vata using diet, hydration, daily routine, and some gentle therapies. Start by consuming warm, cooked foods that are easily digestible such as soups, stews, and porridges. Add herbs like ginger, fennel, cumin, and turmeric in your meals; they can help reduce inflammation and support digestion.

Keeping your daily routine consistent with regular sleep and meal times will help pacify Vata. Oil massages using warm sesame oil can be beneficial—a daily self-massage, known as abhyanga, can be soothing for the muscles and nerves. Daily practice of gentle yoga or stretching will improve circulation and ease tension from muscles.

Pay attention to your posture, especially when working or lifting objects. Try to sleep on the side opposite of the affected arm using a small pillow under your arm could alleviate strain.

Be cautious with overstraining exercises and heavy lifting until pain stabilizes. Keep hydrated with warm, herbal teas like chamomile or licorice but avoid iced drinks. Consider herbal preparations like ashwagandha or dashamula as they are known to nourish the nervous system, but check with a local practitioner to personalize these to your dosha type.

Should symptoms persist or worsen, consulting with an integrative practitioner who can combine both Ayurveda and modern care is advisable.

The symptoms you’re describing suggest a spread of the pain which indicates that initial diagnosis might require more attention now. While tennis elbow originates from overuse of elbow tendons, if the pain is spreading, this might be a sign of a related nerve or muscle issue that may need further examination by a healthcare professional.

From a Siddha-Ayurvedic perspective, this spread of pain can be related to an imbalance in the Vata dosha, which governs movement and the nervous system. When aggravated, Vata can cause discomfort and erratic pain sensations such as you’re experiencing. Enhancing circulation and calming Vata could help.

Start with applying warm sesame oil mixed with a pinch of asafetida on the affected areas. Gently massage the oil in circular motion on your elbow, forearm, and shoulder to help soothe Vata and improve circulation. Do this daily, preferably before bed.

Consider dietary adjustments to calm Vata as well; include warm, cooked foods like stews, rice and ghee. Seeds and nuts, especially almonds soaked overnight, can help nourish and balance. Avoid cold and dry foods, as they can increase Vata.

Additionally, try turmeric milk. Add half a teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk, and drink once a day to reduce inflammation. However, if you’re experiencing a lot of discomfort, such practices may not be enough on their own. Given the symptom severity and spread, you should revisit a healthcare professional promptly to rule out nerve or muscular complications. Early intervention is key to avoid further damage and ensure a comprehensive treatment approach.