A tendonitis brace is a supportive device engineered to reduce mechanical strain on an inflamed tendon, offering rest and mechanical support during recovery. This non-invasive treatment limits excessive or painful motion in the affected joint, a common cause of persistent tendon irritation. Proper selection and application are fundamental to ensuring the brace functions correctly to redistribute forces and facilitate healing.
Selecting the Correct Brace Type
The first step in using a tendonitis brace effectively is choosing a style tailored to the injury’s location and severity, as different joints require different mechanical interventions. For common conditions like tennis or golfer’s elbow, a counterforce strap is frequently recommended. This strap is worn on the forearm muscle belly, applying localized pressure that changes the angle of pull on the tendon and redirects force away from the painful attachment point near the joint.
Compression sleeves, made from materials like neoprene or knitted fabric, provide generalized, circumferential pressure across the entire joint, such as the elbow or ankle. These sleeves are ideal for mild to moderate tendonitis, working to reduce swelling and increase blood flow to promote healing. For wrist or thumb tendonitis, a rigid splint is often used. This works by immobilizing the joint in a neutral or slightly extended position (typically between 5 to 30 degrees) to minimize strain on the inflamed tendons.
Proper Application and Tension Setting
Correct placement is paramount for a brace to achieve its therapeutic effect, and it varies depending on the brace type. A counterforce strap, used for elbow tendonitis, must be placed approximately one to two finger-widths below the point of maximum pain, directly over the muscle belly. When securing this strap, it is often beneficial to actively extend the wrist while fastening the band to ensure the muscles are engaged and the pressure nodule is correctly positioned.
The goal of tension setting is to achieve a fit that is supportive yet not restrictive, often described as “snug but not tight.” For adjustable braces with straps or closures, the tension should be enough to noticeably reduce pain during a provocative movement without causing discomfort at rest. Immediately check for signs of over-tightening after application, such as tingling, numbness, or a cold sensation in the extremity, which indicate reduced circulation or nerve compression. If the skin color changes or you feel throbbing, the brace must be loosened or removed immediately. The brace should not leave deep, lasting indentations or marks on the skin when removed.
Guidelines for Wear Duration
The duration a tendonitis brace should be worn depends heavily on the severity of the condition and the specific activities being performed. General recommendations suggest wearing the brace during activities that tend to aggravate the tendon, thereby mechanically supporting it when it is under the most stress. For initial, severe pain, a healthcare provider may recommend continuous wear for one to two weeks, with the brace only removed for hygiene and prescribed exercises.
As symptoms subside, use is often tapered, reserving the brace primarily for high-load activities, such as sports or repetitive tasks. Wearing a compression brace or counterforce strap while sleeping is generally not advised, as it can cause circulatory issues. However, a rigid splint for the wrist may be recommended overnight to maintain a neutral position and prevent symptoms from worsening. Prolonged, continuous use beyond a few weeks is typically discouraged without professional guidance, as it can lead to muscle dependency and potential weakness. The overall treatment duration often ranges from a few days to several weeks, with the goal being to wean off the device once the tendon has healed and pain-free function is restored.