Pain associated with lateral or medial epicondylitis (also known as tennis and golfer’s elbow respectively) is common and can interfere with functional use of the involved extremity. According to research study, an elbow brace or wrist orthosis can assist with decreasing pain and increasing function for this diagnosis. The following information provides a comparison of commonly used braces and splints to treat the symptoms associated with lateral or medial epicondylitis.
3pp Elbow POP Splint
| Purpose: Applies an adjustable point of pressure to relieve stress on the muscles and tendons |
| Design: Base sleeve is applied with light tension to avoid circumferential force; foam pad is applied to a 2nd strap to decrease tension on the tendons |
| Adjustability/Fit: The base sleeve is fully adjustable and force applied by the pad is adjusted to comfort |
| Material: Foam lined nylon and spandex fabric sleeve; non-latex foam pads with nylon hook closure |
| Size: Two size options- fit a forearm circumference from 8” to 13” |
| Washable: Yes |
| Purchase Info: 3-Point Products or its distributors and retail online store at ohmyarthritis.com |
Bandit Elbow Band
| Purpose: Employs two molded forms and a strap to apply compression to the wrist extensor or flexor bulk |
| Design: Contoured plastic components and a hook and loop strap apply compression over the muscles |
| Adjustability/Fit: Adjustable Velcro strap secures the cups in place on the forearm |
| Material: Molded plastic with neoprene lining; nylon hook and loop straps |
| Size: One size with minimum circumference of 8” |
| Washable: Yes |
| Purchase Info: Online on many websites or from your orthopedic care provider |
Aircast Pneumatic Armband
| Purpose: Vinyl air cell provides compression and cushioning over the tendons and muscles |
| Design: Velcro strap is used to hold the air cell in place to provide compression directly over the muscles and tendons |
| Adjustability/Fit: One size air cell with adjustable Velcro strap designed to conform to the arm |
| Material: Vinyl air cell with hook and loop strap |
| Size: One size fits most, fits circumference from 8” to 14” |
| Washable: Yes |
| Purchase Info: Online on many websites or your orthopedic care provider |
Elbow Compression Sleeve
| Purpose: Reduces pain with circumferential compression around the elbow and proximal forearm |
| Design: Employs circumferential pressure around the elbow to decrease edema, inflammation and pain |
| Adjustability/Fit: Size determines the amount of pressure; available in varying sizes |
| Material: Generally, cotton or polyester fabric with an elastic component knitted into fabric |
| Size: Sizing depends on design |
| Washable: Yes |
| Purchase Info: Many options available online and in stores |
Wrist Extension Orthosis
| Purpose: Immobilizes the wrist to decrease stress on to the wrist extensors or flexors |
| Design: Maintains the wrist in a neutral to slightly extended position to relieve tension on extensor tendons |
| Adjustability/Fit: Most OTC wrist braces are adjusted with hook and loop straps |
| Material: Woven materials and hook and loop strap; may include aluminum or plastic stays |
| Size: Available in various size ranges |
| Washable: Yes, in most cases |
| Purchase Info: Available online or at pharmacies |
