Elbow tendonitis is a common condition that can cause discomfort and pain around the elbow joint, making everyday activities challenging. Many individuals experiencing this seek various solutions to alleviate their symptoms. A frequent question arises regarding the effectiveness of elbow wraps in providing relief for this condition. Understanding how these wraps function and their impact is important for those with elbow pain.
Understanding Tendonitis
Tendonitis refers to the irritation or inflammation of a tendon, the strong, fibrous cords connecting muscles to bones. This condition often develops due to repetitive strain or overuse, placing excessive stress on the tendons. It commonly affects areas such as the shoulders, wrists, knees, and elbows.
In the elbow, two common forms of tendonitis are “tennis elbow” and “golfer’s elbow.” Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, affects the outer part of the elbow and involves the tendons that extend the wrist and fingers. Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, impacts the inner side of the elbow and involves the tendons responsible for flexing the wrist and closing the fingers into a fist. Both conditions stem from repetitive movements that strain these specific tendon groups.
How Elbow Wraps Work
Elbow wraps provide support and compression to the affected area, reducing discomfort. These devices come in several forms, including compression sleeves, counterforce braces, and straps. Compression sleeves fit snugly over the entire elbow joint, offering general pressure and support. This gentle compression can help reduce swelling and enhance blood flow to the area, which assists in the healing process.
Counterforce braces, simple straps, are worn just below the elbow joint, directly over the muscle belly. The principle behind these braces is to apply targeted pressure, which helps to redistribute the stress away from the injured tendon attachment point on the bone. By compressing the muscle, they can lessen the force transmitted to the microtears in the tendon during activities.
Do Elbow Wraps Help?
Elbow wraps offer symptomatic relief for tendonitis by reducing pain and providing support during activity. This is achieved through compression, which may reduce inflammation and promote blood flow. Wraps can also limit movement in the affected arm, decreasing further irritation to the tendons. Counterforce straps have been shown to increase pain-free grip strength in individuals with tennis elbow.
Despite providing relief, elbow wraps do not “cure” tendonitis. Their primary role is pain management and support, especially during activities that aggravate symptoms. They can help by stabilizing the injured tendon, reducing stress during movement, and minimizing discomfort. While compression sleeves can increase circulation and stabilize the area, they do not provide rigid structural support or offload the tendons in the same way a counterforce brace might.
For optimal results, proper fit and usage are important. Counterforce straps should be placed an inch or two below the elbow crease, over the muscle belly, and tightened to provide snug but not overly tight compression. Wearing a brace during activities that trigger discomfort is beneficial, but it should be removed during rest to prevent stiffness or circulation issues. If a wrap causes discomfort or irritation, it should be removed, and a healthcare professional should be consulted.
Broader Tendonitis Management
Elbow wraps represent just one element within a comprehensive approach to managing tendonitis. Rest from activities that aggravate the condition is important for the tendon to heal. Applying ice to the affected area for 10-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce pain, muscle spasms, and swelling. Elevating the affected limb can also help reduce swelling.
Physical therapy is important for recovery, including stretching and strengthening exercises. Therapists may guide patients through exercises like wrist extensions, wrist flexions, and grip strengthening to rebuild muscle strength and support the joint. Eccentric exercises, which involve lengthening the muscle as it contracts, are particularly effective for chronic tendon issues as they promote healing and reduce pain. Addressing ergonomic factors and modifying techniques in daily activities or sports can help prevent recurrence. Consulting a healthcare professional for a personalized treatment plan is advisable for accurate diagnosis and tailored management.