Elbow Supports

Epicondylitis Clasp or Tennis Elbow Brace

These are designed especially for the treatment of tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis) and golfers elbow (medial epicondylitis). Clasps are usually plastic and 'U' shaped, designed to fit around the upper forearm. Here it applies pressure to the extensor tendons (in tennis elbow) or the flexor tendons (in golfers elbow) to protect the tendon and reduce the strain and force placed on them when using the wrist. It works by applying pressure to the muscles which helps prevent jarring of the tendons.

Altering the way the brace is worn adapts it between treating tennis and golfers elbow. Worn underneath the forearm with the larger end applying pressure to the outer elbow treats tennis elbow. Turning it around so it is worn over the front of the elbow with the large end over the inner elbow will treat golfers elbow.

An alternative is the epicondylitis brace, which is usually a neoprene support with a strap around the upper forearm which can be used to apply pressure to treat both conditions. These are often more comfortable to wear for long periods.

Neoprene Elbow Supports

These support the joint in general and retain body heat to keep the joint, tendons and muscles warm. Warm joints and muscles will work more efficiently than cold ones. This extra warmth also encourages an increase in blood flow to the area, which is required for speedy healing!

They are available in both wrap-around and pull-on versions. A wrap around usually comes in one size fits all and fastens around the elbow with velcro. This is ideal for those whose elbow swells up and down as a result of injury. Pull-on supports may feel more secure around the joint and usually require a measurement to be taken around the elbow in order to get the correct size.

Padded Elbow Supports

Padded elbow supports are similar to simple neoprene elbow supports except they have additional padding to protect the end of the elbow. This is excellent for situations where excess pressue will be placed on the elbow or for protecting sensitive elbows such as in bursitis. They are also useful in contact sports or sports inolving possibly landing on or scrapping the elbow, such as volleyball.

Elbow supports and braces are available online from www.return2fitness.co.uk