Greetings
Three years ago I think it started and the TE problem was persistent. I
had three Cortisone shots and stopped going to Ortho becuase he was
like - making $ from my TE than cure me. I talked to my PCP and he
recommended I visit the Hand surgery guy. So I go and here is the
conversation - just three sentences.

"Extend hand and try to hold it when I bend your palm down"

"Ouch, it hurts like hell"

He pressed the elbow at a particular place and again this "Ouch."  He
says

"You need surgery. Get an MRI and bring the films and let us talk"

I say "Let us suppose I do not need surgery, what..." He cuts me short
and says "I think you do!"

I am surprised he quickly concluded so fast.  My questions now..

I have never tried R.I.C.E technique. Just read that taking Cortisone
is bad idea but it is too late since I already took thrice :-(

1. Can I start RICE now and would it help?
2. If surgery is eventually recommended, should I go for it or seek a
2nd opinion?
3. I applied icy hot patch once when the pain was killing. It helped a
bit. Could RICE help now or surgery is my option ONLY?
4. There are some creams available on internet that claim to be very
helpful. Any ideas or experience with those for you?

Any other help is kindly appreciated. Thanks a lot in advance.