Tennis elbow is a painful condition that can be caused by repetitive motions such as playing tennis or painting.It is possible to temporarily relieve your pain with a brace.If you choose a well-fitting brace and put it on correctly, you can get back to your favorite activities.If you want to heal your tendons permanently, you need rest rather than a brace.
Step 1: There is a wide selection at your local sporting goods store.
You can buy a brace at a sporting goods store.Your sporting goods store may have a greater selection of braces and styles, as well as professionals who can help fit you for a brace and show you how to wear it properly.Bring your racket to the store if your tennis elbow started after using a new racket.To make sure it doesn't contribute to your problem, you can ask a store pro if it is a good weight and size.
Step 2: The measurement is 1 inch below the elbow.
Take the measurement with a tape measurer and compare it to the size chart on the back of the brace package.The sizes are small, medium, and large.A woven strap and a foam layer go against the arm in most braces.Some braces have a small gel pack that can be frozen and used to relieve swelling.Tennis elbow braces can be made to fit either arm.It is not necessary to choose a side-specific brace.
Step 3: You can choose between a strap of 1.97 in (5 cm) or 3.15 in (8 cm).
Don't use a support strap thinner than this, as the strap may be too slim to adequately compress your inflammation.The overall size of the brace is not as important as the strap size.Some of the braces are shorter than the strap and others are longer.Personal preference is what determines what style you choose.The same strap is used for each brace and it performs the same job.
Step 4: There is a brace with a fabric that can be washed.
If you wear a brace, you should wash it weekly.Use a dime-sized amount of soap to wash it.Remove the brace from the water and let it dry.Your brace will not get weakened or bent out of shape if you wash it with hand washing.
Step 5: The manufacturer has directions.
Make sure to read the manufacturer's instructions.The directions will tell you how to wear your brace.If you are unsure, defer to the manufacturer's instructions, which are suited to most braces but not all.
Step 6: The brace should be opened.
Pull the opposite sides of the brace apart by undoing the hook-and-loop straps.You can slide the brace over your arm if it is open.
Step 7: Put the brace on your arm.
Attach your hand and forearm to the brace.The top of the supportive strap is 1 inch below your elbow.If you have a forearm splint in the brace, it is a good idea to place it on the thumb side of your arm.
Step 8: The elbow brace needs to be positioned with the cushion facing out.
The area on the top of your forearm that will support your tendon should be moved.The underside of your forearm is usually where the strap will be secured.The cushion may be foam or an air pack.
Step 9: The brace should be snug but not uncomfortable.
Now that the brace is in its proper position, use the strap to pull it snug.Without the brace, you should be able to make a fist or grip a racket.The brace should be tight so it doesn't move on your arm.
Step 10: As necessary, make any adjustments for comfort.
Attempt the activity that causes you the most pain.If it feels tight, loosen it.Try to tighten it if it feels like it isn't giving you enough support.To feel the most relief, adjust the brace.
Step 11: If you need additional support, wear the brace.
If you want more support, you should wear a brace while you go about your day.Unless you put it on wrong, wearing a brace won't hurt you.A doctor, tennis pro, or physical therapist can help you put a brace on yourself.They can help you feel good about your brace.