Elbow Brace

An Elbow Brace or Support is a useful device that can help patients affected by repetitive stress injuries to the ligaments and tendons of that joint. The elbow moves in both flexion and extension and is also affected by movements of the forearm. It is supported by a medial ligament on the inside of the joint and a lateral ligament on the other side. Several sporting or other activities can subject the joint to unusual levels of stress. These include throwing or pitching a baseball, for example. The result can be the need to wear an elbow brace.

Elbow braces can be used to treat conditions like tennis or golfer’s elbow. In addition, they can help treat contusions of the olecranon bursa situated at the bony point of the elbow and other injuries at or near the joint.

Elbow braces can be in the form of several alternative designs:

• Adjustable elbow supports extend from a few inches above the elbow to a few inches below it. They also include straps that provide a customizable fit while allowing a full range of motion;
• Elbow sleeves are similar to adjustable elbow supports except that they do not include straps.
• Tennis elbow supports are straps that fit just below the elbow. They target the muscles of the forearm that connect to the medial and lateral ligaments of the elbow.

In addition, the more sophisticated elbow braces are made of breathable materials to maximize long term wearing comfort. Some are also treated with antimicrobial agents to eliminate the odor of perspiration and improve patient compliance.