From the Research
For elbow tendinopathy with weight lifting restrictions at Amazon, you should typically engage in light duty work for 2-4 weeks, gradually increasing activities as symptoms improve, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1.
Key Considerations
- Initially, limit lifting to 5-10 pounds and avoid repetitive movements to prevent exacerbating the condition.
- Work with your healthcare provider and Amazon's accommodations team to establish specific restrictions based on your condition's severity.
- During recovery, use anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen (400-600mg three times daily with food) or naproxen (500mg twice daily with food) for pain and inflammation, as recommended by studies such as 2.
- Apply ice for 15-20 minutes several times daily, especially after work, to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Perform gentle stretching and strengthening exercises as recommended by your physical therapist to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Recovery and Return to Work
- Recovery varies by individual, but most cases show significant improvement within 4-6 weeks with proper management, as noted in studies like 3 and 4.
- Regular communication with your supervisor about your capabilities is essential to prevent reinjury, as tendinopathy can worsen if you return to full duties too quickly.
- A study from 2022 5 highlights the importance of proper documentation and standardized treatment approaches for tennis elbow, which can inform management strategies for elbow tendinopathy in a work setting like Amazon.
Prioritizing Morbidity, Mortality, and Quality of Life
- The primary goal is to minimize the risk of complications and promote optimal recovery, thereby reducing morbidity and improving quality of life.
- By following a gradual return to work plan and adhering to recommended treatments, individuals with elbow tendinopathy can reduce their risk of long-term disability and improve their overall well-being, as supported by the evidence from 1.