Arm & Elbow Braces
What are Elbow Braces For?
Elbow braces are used to provide additional support and compression to the various muscles, ligaments, and joints of the elbow. They are typically needed when you experience some type of injury to the elbow so that you can continue to function while your body heals. This can include times when your elbow hurts due to overuse (commonly referred to as tennis elbow).
How To Put On An Elbow Brace
In order to be effective, the brace needs to be kept tight enough to provide compression, but still comfortable enough that you can wear it as long as needed. This is why it is so important to make sure you get the right size, or that you choose an adjustable fit option. While it can be tempting to get the brace as tight as possible when putting it on, you actually want to make sure that it fits snugly but comfortably to get the best results. If you need help determining how tight your elbow brace should be, speak with your doctor, physical therapist, or a CVS pharmacist to get advice.
How To Wear Tennis Elbow Brace
Tennis elbow braces, which are also commonly called tennis elbow straps or tennis elbow wraps, are worn just past the actual elbow joint. They are thinner than a full elbow brace, and provide compression to the muscle, tendons, and ligaments that run from the elbow area down to the hand. This is where tennis players (and millions of others who engage in repetitive motion with their arms) often experience stress and discomfort. Just like a traditional elbow brace, the tennis elbow brace is either wrapped around this area or slid on over the hand and up the arm until it is snugly in place.
Elbow Support
An arm or elbow injury can cause pain and make even small movements difficult. Fortunately, you can take steps to stay active while you heal with the right arm brace or elbow brace. CVS has a huge selection of arm and elbow braces available for you to choose from. You can shop online and have the best ankle or elbow brace for your needs shipped to your door.
Arm Slings
In some cases, it is necessary to completely immobilize an arm during the healing process. Slings are often used for this purpose. A sling is a piece of fabric or foam attached to a strap. The strap is worn over your opposite shoulder so that the sling cradles your bent arm. Elevating slings hold the affected arm at an angle to reduce swelling. Foam padding may line the sling for added comfort.
Arm Support Brace
When an injury does not require complete immobilization, your medical provider may recommend an elbow or arm support brace. This type of brace is used to help reduce the amount of side-to-side motion without completely preventing you from using your elbow or wrist. There are many different types of arm and elbow support braces available. Some simply fit over the arm or elbow like a sleeve while others are secured with hook-and-loop fasteners.
Tennis Elbow Treatment
Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis is a condition that occurs when the muscles and the tendons around the elbow joint become inflamed due to overuse. The problem is common among tennis players, but can also effect art workers, cooks and other people who perform repetitive arm movements on a regular basis. For tennis elbow, physicians may recommend a counter balance brace. This type of brace is worn on the back of the forearm during exercise or work. Once in place, the brace places pressure on the muscles and tendons just below the elbow, helping to reduce strain on the joint while providing support.
Best Elbow Brace
To ensure that you select the right elbow brace or arm brace, consult your medical provider before you shop. He or she can give you tips on how to select an elbow or arm brace and provide you with instructions on when and how to use the brace. Keep in mind that some arm braces and elbow braces come in different sizes. Measuring yourself before you shop can help you quickly find a brace that will fit you well.
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