Golfer’s elbow is a common overuse injury affecting the inner part of the elbow. This condition involves the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the bony prominence on the inside of the elbow. Repeated strain from activities involving wrist and arm movements can lead to tiny tears and inflammation in these tendons, resulting in pain and tenderness. Elbow braces are often used to manage symptoms of golfer’s elbow.
How the Brace Works
A counter-force elbow brace applies targeted pressure to forearm muscles. This pressure is typically exerted by a strap worn just below the elbow, directly over the flexor muscles responsible for wrist and finger movements. By compressing these muscles, the brace helps to redistribute the forces that would otherwise pull directly on the inflamed tendons at their attachment point on the inner elbow. This mechanical offloading reduces tension on the injured area, alleviating pain and promoting healing. Some braces also incorporate broader compression to support blood flow and reduce inflammation around the elbow joint.
When and How Long to Wear Your Brace
The decision of when and for how long to wear a golfer’s elbow brace depends on individual symptoms and activity levels. It is generally recommended to wear the brace during activities that tend to aggravate your elbow pain, such as sports, repetitive work tasks, or daily movements involving significant wrist and hand use. The brace provides support and reduces strain on the affected tendons during these periods of increased demand.
Conversely, wearing the brace continuously, particularly during rest or sleep, is typically not advised. During sleep, a brace can restrict blood circulation and may hinder the natural healing processes that occur when the body is at rest. Furthermore, constant compression can lead to stiffness in the muscles and tendons, potentially impeding recovery.
The overall duration for wearing a brace varies depending on the severity of the injury and individual healing progress. Many find benefit from wearing the brace for a few weeks, often in the acute phase of injury, which may last 2 to 4 weeks. As pain subsides and strength improves, the brace’s use should be gradually reduced. The goal is to gradually reduce reliance on the brace as the elbow regains function.
Risks of Constant Brace Wear
While a brace can offer valuable support, continuous or improper use carries potential negative consequences. One concern is muscle weakening if the brace is worn constantly without incorporating strengthening exercises. The brace provides external stability, reducing the workload on forearm muscles and potentially leading to their weakening over time.
Skin irritation and discomfort are also common issues associated with prolonged brace wear. This can manifest as chafing, rashes, or itching, especially if the brace is too tight, made of non-breathable materials, or if moisture becomes trapped underneath.
An additional risk involves the potential for delayed healing or increased scar tissue formation. Excessive compression from a brace can reduce blood flow to the injured area, which is essential for tissue repair. This restricted circulation may slow down the natural healing process and could encourage the development of less flexible scar tissue. Moreover, relying too heavily on a brace can create a false sense of security, leading individuals to overuse the injured arm and inadvertently impede full recovery.
Beyond the Brace Other Recovery Strategies
Managing golfer’s elbow effectively extends beyond just wearing a brace, encompassing a comprehensive recovery plan. Initial steps often involve rest, which means avoiding activities that aggravate the pain to allow the injured tendons to begin healing. Applying ice to the affected area can help reduce acute pain and inflammation, particularly in the first 72 hours following injury, while heat may be more beneficial later for stiffness and circulation.
Once the initial pain subsides, a structured program of stretching and strengthening exercises becomes important. Exercises like wrist flexor and extensor stretches, eccentric movements, and grip strengthening can help restore flexibility, build muscle support, and improve the tendon’s capacity to handle stress. These exercises should be performed under guidance to ensure proper technique and progression.
Adjusting daily habits and workspaces through ergonomic principles can also significantly contribute to recovery and prevention. This includes maintaining proper posture, ensuring a neutral wrist position during tasks, using ergonomic tools or equipment, and taking frequent breaks from repetitive movements. Ultimately, consulting a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, is recommended for an accurate diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan. They can provide specific guidance, manual therapy, and a tailored exercise regimen to address the root cause of the condition and facilitate a return to full function.