Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that causes pain and inflammation in the tendons connecting the forearm muscles to the outside of the elbow. It frequently results from repetitive strain on the forearm muscles and tendons, often seen in activities involving gripping or twisting the wrist and forearm. While often associated with racquet sports, many people develop tennis elbow from other activities like manual labor or computer work. A tennis elbow brace aims to alleviate pain and provide support to the healing tendons.
How Long to Wear Your Tennis Elbow Brace
The duration for wearing a tennis elbow brace varies significantly, depending on the condition’s severity and individual response. Generally, a brace might be worn for a few weeks to several months, as most cases of tennis elbow improve with non-surgical treatments and rest within a few months.
It is recommended to wear the brace primarily during activities that aggravate symptoms, rather than continuously. The brace serves as a temporary aid to reduce strain on affected tendons while performing tasks. As pain reduces and function improves, allowing activities without discomfort, gradually reduce or discontinue brace use. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial to determine the precise duration and appropriate timing for stopping brace wear. The brace is a supportive measure, not a permanent solution, and long-term use without addressing underlying issues is not advised.
Maximizing Brace Effectiveness
To maximize brace effectiveness, place it on the forearm a few inches below the elbow crease, where the muscles are broadest, not directly over the elbow joint. Positioning the brace about 1-3 inches (3-8 cm) from the elbow’s point helps avoid discomfort while ensuring a full range of motion. The brace should fit snugly, applying firm pressure, but not so tightly that it restricts blood flow or causes numbness.
Counterforce braces, a common type, work by applying targeted pressure to the forearm muscles, redistributing forces away from the injured tendon attachment at the elbow. This pressure can alter the tendon’s angle during movement, reducing strain and allowing the area to heal. Some braces include a pad or nodule positioned directly over the most tender muscle part for specific compression. Compression sleeves offer general support and warmth, but counterforce braces provide more targeted pressure.
Beyond the Brace Supporting Recovery
While a tennis elbow brace offers support, it is just one part of a comprehensive recovery plan. Rest and activity modification are important, meaning avoiding or reducing activities that aggravate elbow pain. This might involve adjusting techniques for sports or work tasks to lessen elbow strain. Applying ice to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, several times a day, can help reduce inflammation and pain, especially in initial stages or during flare-ups.
Once initial pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the wrist and forearm muscles are recommended to improve flexibility and build strength. A physical therapist can design a tailored exercise program, which may include eccentric exercises that involve extending the injured muscle. Physical therapy also incorporates manual therapy techniques, such as massage, to reduce muscle tightness and enhance joint mobility. If symptoms persist or worsen despite conservative measures, further medical evaluation is advisable. This might lead to discussions about other interventions, such as corticosteroid injections for pain relief or, in rare cases that do not improve after 6 to 12 months, surgical options to address damaged tissue.