Tennis elbow, known medically as lateral epicondylitis, is a common condition characterized by pain on the outside of the elbow. This discomfort often arises from the overuse of forearm muscles and tendons that attach to the outer part of the elbow. This article explains how supportive wraps and devices alleviate pain, details available support types, provides application instructions, and offers guidance on maximizing effectiveness and seeking medical attention.
How Wrapping Provides Relief
Wrapping or bracing the arm for tennis elbow addresses strain on affected tendons. These devices apply compression to forearm muscles, absorbing and redistributing forces that would otherwise impact the inflamed tendon. This external pressure reduces tension at the tendon’s attachment point, decreasing strain on forearm muscles during activity. By stabilizing the area and altering tendon function, these supports relieve pain and promote healing by allowing injured tissues to rest.
Available Support Devices
Several support devices manage tennis elbow. The most prevalent is the elbow strap, also known as a counterforce brace. This device features a strap wrapping around the upper forearm, often with a cushioned pad applying targeted pressure to extensor muscles just below the elbow. Compression sleeves provide general compression and warmth to the entire elbow joint and surrounding area, aiding circulation and reducing swelling. Elastic bandages, while less specialized, provide adjustable compression and support around the elbow.
How to Apply a Support Device
Proper application is essential for a support device’s effectiveness. For an elbow strap, slide the brace onto the affected arm. The strap should be positioned on the forearm, approximately 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) below the elbow crease, rather than directly over the painful elbow joint itself. If the brace has a padded section, this pad should be placed over the muscle belly on the outside of the forearm, which is typically the broadest part of the arm where the pain is felt.
Once positioned, tighten the strap to achieve a snug fit that provides firm pressure without causing discomfort, tingling, numbness, or restricting circulation. Aim for tightness similar to a blood pressure cuff – firm but not constrictive. You should be able to make a fist or grip an object without the brace feeling too tight. Adjustments can be made by slightly loosening or tightening the strap and moving it minimally to find the most comfortable and pain-reducing position.
For compression sleeves, pull the sleeve up the arm to cover the elbow joint and surrounding forearm, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit. When using an elastic bandage, start wrapping below the elbow, working upwards in an overlapping pattern, maintaining consistent pressure, and securing the end. Always check for proper circulation after application.
Maximizing Effectiveness and When to Seek Help
To maximize the effectiveness of a support device, wear it primarily during activities that aggravate your elbow pain, such as repetitive motions or gripping tasks. It is not recommended to wear the brace constantly, as muscles need to strengthen naturally. While some sources suggest wearing it at night, continuous wear might not be beneficial for healing and could potentially hinder muscle adaptation. Signs that a device might be too tight include numbness, tingling, increased pain, or discoloration in the hand or arm, in which case the strap should be loosened immediately.
Self-care measures, including support devices, are sufficient for tennis elbow. However, if pain persists for more than a week or two, worsens, or if symptoms such as swelling, discoloration, severe pain affecting daily activities, or difficulty moving the elbow occur, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. A doctor can provide an accurate diagnosis, rule out other conditions, and recommend further treatments like physical therapy or other interventions.