As much as the Internet can provide people with lots of information on medical treatments, it does not give any layperson the medical knowledge needed to adequately treat an elbow sprain at home. This is due to the fact that it may be very hard to distinguish from the outer arm, the degree of ligament damage created when a sprain is suspected. Therefore, the simple answer to this question is that people should treat an elbow sprain by going to the doctor to obtain proper diagnosis.

Any type of sprain represents stretching and potentially tearing of the ligaments. A sprain in the elbow may present with swelling, significant pain, a popping sound, bruising around the joint and more severe pain if the arm is moved. Since people will likely have to transport a person with an elbow sprain to the doctor or hospital, there are a few initial treatments that may help make this a little easier.

First, it may be useful to create a sling for the elbow so support for the arm shifts to the neck and shoulders. Using a pillowcase, a thin sheet or other appropriate fabric, the sling can be tied to one side of the neck and the person can rest his or her arm in. Sometimes, resting the arm in a sling, because it is bent, makes the person uncomfortable. When this is the case, using a stretchy bandage or wrap to keep the elbow straight may be a better choice.

Whether a sling or wrap is used, while waiting to go the doctor, the elbow sprain should be iced. When available, a cold pack from the freezer is great. Frozen vegetables like peas or corn also work very well since they will sit around the joint with greater ease. Initial icing should last for 15-20 minutes, and this should be repeated in three hours.

At the hospital, a physician will assess the elbow, and evaluate things like swelling and movement. It may be necessary to take an x-ray or other scans to determine degree of ligament damage. When damage is only mild, treatment might include stabilization of the elbow, via wrap, sling or brace, or no stabilization. People might be told to rest the arm at home, use ice every three to four hours, and not to resume regular activities for a few days.

More severe elbow sprain may correspond to greater limits in activity. A sprain of significant magnitude would likely require a brace. If the damage to the ligaments is very severe and they are torn, doctors may recommend surgery, too. After surgery people might require physical therapy when the arm is recovered, so that full range of motion is retained or restored.

Given the variety of treatments for elbow sprain, it should not be surprising that home treatment could fall on the side of being extremely inadequate. Joints are very important, too, since they create much greater range of motion. Thus, protecting these by getting medical help for an elbow sprain simply makes good sense.