When you’re dealing with the pain and frustration of tennis elbow, you might wonder if a brace could be the magic solution. While bracing can offer some temporary relief, it’s important to know how and when to use it safely and effectively.
In the latest episode of Your Healing Team Podcast, I dive deep into the world of tennis elbow bracing to give you the information you need to make informed decisions. Here’s a sneak peek at what you’ll learn!
Types of Braces for Tennis Elbow
The two most common braces for tennis elbow are:
Forearm Strap: A simple band worn around the forearm a couple of inches below the tender spot.
Wrist Extension Splint: Often marketed as a carpal tunnel night splint, this holds your wrist in a neutral position to reduce tension on the tendons.
Each brace serves a different purpose and can be useful in specific situations.
How Braces Work (and When to Use Them)
Braces, like the forearm strap, provide a counterforce that reduces tension on the tendon by supporting the muscles in your arm. This can temporarily ease pain, especially during the early stages of tennis elbow (within the first three months of symptoms).
However, braces are not a cure for tennis elbow. They’re a tool to manage discomfort while you focus on long-term healing strategies like strengthening exercises and activity modification.
The Catch-22 of Bracing
While bracing can reduce pain, there’s a trade-off. Wearing a brace too often or too tightly can cause the muscles underneath to weaken. As your muscles weaken, you might become more reliant on the brace—and your symptoms could worsen over time.
Braces should be used sparingly and only during activities that aggravate your symptoms, such as lifting, packing, or playing sports.
Important Safety Tips for Bracing
Never wear a brace overnight. Circulation slows down while you sleep, and a tight brace can increase the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Listen to your body. If a brace causes discomfort, tingling, or makes your symptoms worse, stop using it—it might not be right for you.
Use braces as a temporary solution. They’re not meant for long-term use and should never replace proper rehabilitation.
DIY Alternatives to Traditional Braces
Can’t find a comfortable elbow brace? Try this simple trick:
Roll a small towel into a sausage shape and place it along your arm.
Use a light bandage to secure it in place.
This allows you to bend your arm while still limiting extreme movement that might strain your tendons. It’s an easy, low-cost option to try before investing in a brace.
The Bottom Line
Braces can be helpful for managing tennis elbow pain, but they’re not a one-size-fits-all solution. Use them strategically and as part of a broader plan that includes strengthening, rest, and addressing the root cause of your symptoms.
For a more detailed discussion on bracing, including when and how to use each type, check out the latest episode of Your Healing Team Podcast!
Have questions about bracing or other tennis elbow treatments? Drop them in the comments or reach out—I’m here to help you on your healing journey.
About Emma Green
Hi, I’m Emma Green, the Tennis Elbow Queen! I specialize in helping people recover from tennis elbow and other overuse injuries with practical, effective strategies. Through my podcast and coaching programs, I’m here to guide you every step of the way.
Comments