Choosing The Best Elbow Band For You
If you’re here, you’re likely experiencing some frustrating elbow pain you’d love to get rid of. Well, the first step to elbow pain relief is figuring out exactly what is causing it. Maybe it’s suddenly come on, or perhaps you’ve been dealing with it for months now. No matter the case, we have the best elbow straps and bands, it’s just a matter of finding the right fit for you. Keep reading to discover what may be causing your elbow pain, and the best way to say goodbye to it for good!
Golfer’s Elbow vs. Tennis Elbow: What’s The Difference?
Commonly confused, golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow can cause some great pain to your elbow. Finding the most effective way to relieve that pain starts with determining which of these conditions you have. Tennis elbow is lateral epicondylitis and occurs in the outside of the elbow. The golfer's elbow is called medial epicondylitis and it affects the inside of the elbow.
You may be thinking, wait, I must not have tennis or golfer’s elbow, I don’t even play these sports. You’re not alone, many people mistakenly believe these elbow pain conditions only affect those who play golf and tennis (or any sports involving a strong grip). This is simply not true, anyone whose job involves repetitive, twisting movements, such as carpentry, plumbing, painting, driving a bus, or throwing a baseball can cause the condition.
How Do You Treat Tennis Elbow At Home?
Let’s talk about tennis elbow treatment. Elbow pain can affect everyday activities, anything from typing as you work from home to lifting weights at the gym. So, how do we get rid of this pain? Luckily, there are a variety of treatment options for tennis elbow:
- R.I.C.E treatment
- Exercises, stretches, and physical therapy
- Tennis elbow strap or band
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
How Can I Heal a Golfer's Elbow?
Whether it’s pain after a certain movement, stiffness in the elbow, tingling, or weakness, pain caused by golfer’s elbow is no joke. Conveniently, golfer’s elbow treatment is very similar to techniques for healing tennis elbow:
- Know when to rest & cut back on painful activities
- Strengthen and stretch the weakened area
- Apply an ice pack as needed
- Use a counterforce brace on the affected arm
How Do I Know If I Need Elbow Surgery?
When it comes to treating conditions such as tennis or golfer’s elbow, surgery is a last resort option. If a doctor suggests surgery, that's usually done for much more severe situations when rest and rehabilitation have not done the trick. Surgery may be needed if you have elbow pain after more than 6 to 12 months of tendon rehabilitation, or if the pain is keeping you from your job and daily activities.
Why Is A Tennis Elbow Brace Important?
A tennis elbow band strap, brace, or support can help prevent and treat tennis elbow or golfer’s elbow injuries. By limiting unnecessary movement of the forearm and providing added support, you’ll receive the ultimate pain relief for both your inner and outer elbow. An effective step in the tennis elbow treatment, counterforce braces, and elbow straps are cost-effective and can be worn on either the right or left arm. If you’re wanting to get rid of irritating elbow pain, get back to daily activities and avoid elbow surgery, a support sleeve can be an effective, easy-to-use tool.
What’s The Best Way to Relieve My Elbow Pain?
The best treatment for elbow pain should correlate directly with your elbow condition. Depending on the severity of your pain, injury, or condition, there are a variety of treatment options for effective pain relief. In some cases, you may be able to rest, ice, and take over-the-counter pain medications and that will do the trick. However, if you aren’t able to find relief that way, you may find a compression sleeve beneficial. You should always check with your doctor or medical professional first to find the best pain relief for you and your situation.
What Should I Look For In An Elbow Strap?
Choosing the correct tennis elbow strap will depend on your injury or condition and the type of lifestyle you live. An elbow brace should be worn while you heal and recover, which means you may begin to get back to some of the physical activities that previously caused you pain.
For an elbow strap or elbow band to be effective, it must allow the elbow to move properly without restriction. We designed our counterforce elbow braces with the ultimate comfort, and breathability so you can stay active, pain-free without the stiffened feeling of a heavy-duty band on your arm.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Should I Wear A Tennis Elbow Brace?
An elbow compression band can be worn anytime throughout the day, especially while you’re active or performing repetitive motions that may trigger elbow pain. It’s not recommended you wear a compression band while sleeping. You should speak to your doctor or medical professional before wearing an elbow band, as they can give you the best recommendation for the length of wear based on the severity of your condition.
Can I Play Sports / Exercise With An Elbow Band On?
Absolutely! An elbow support strap can be worn on either arm and is designed to prevent pain while you’re active, exercising, and performing activities that may irritate your elbow.
How Do I Wash My Forearm Support Wrap?
If you’re wearing an elbow sleeve often, especially while you’re active, you’re going to want to make sure it’s clean. All of our braces come with an instruction sheet, which includes specific washing directions. However, in most cases, you can hand wash in warm water with mild detergent. Allow brace to air dry completely before reapplying.
What Are The Benefits of Wearing a Tennis Elbow Sleeve?
Using an elbow band or strap is an effective and efficient way to treat and relieve pain caused by several elbow conditions such as tennis elbow and golfer’s elbow. Overall, a tennis elbow brace is an easy way to protect and prevent any further injury to your elbow.
How Do Golfer’s Elbow Straps Work?
The reason you’re experiencing elbow pain is likely due to your extensor muscles attaching and pulling on the lateral epicondyle, causing injury over time. A counterforce elbow brace will compress your extensor muscles to prevent any painful movement, pulling, tension, or irritation.
How Tight Should The Tennis Elbow Brace Be?
To provide effective compression and pressure on your elbow tendons, the forearm brace should be tight enough that you’re able to feel support, but loose enough that you’re comfortable. If you’re doubting how tight your elbow brace should be, speak to a medical professional who can help you make that decision based on your exact condition.