Choosing an Elbow Support

Clasps

• Elbow clasps are usually small plastic braces which fit just below the elbow. They are most often used to treat lateral or medial epicondylitis (tennis or golfers elbow respectively). They work by absorbing some of the shock and strain passed through the tendons in this area. They also increase the blood flow to the area, to help with healing.
• Suitable for - tennis elbow and golfers elbow.
• Advantages - lightweight, targeted pressure.
• Disadvantages - Can be uncomfortable to wear during activity.
• Example - Epicondylitis clasp

Neoprene Supports

• Neoprene supports usually come in a tube-style which is pulled on over the hand and forearm. Neoprene is known for its heat retaining, and compression properties. Some neoprene supports are available with a strap positioned just below the elbow to provide targeted compression to the muscle tendons involved in tennis and golfers elbow.
• Suitable for - most mild to moderate elbow injuries including tennis elbow, golfers elbow and ligament sprains.
• Advantages - Comfortable to wear, with heat retaining and compression properties to aid healing.
• Disadvantages - limited support unless additional straps or splints are present.
• Examples - McDavid 481; McDavid 485 tennis elbow support; LP701 tennis elbow brace

Elasticated Supports

• Elasticated tubi-grip style bandages offer the lowest level of support. They also provide limited compression and heat retention.
• Suitable for - very mild injuries.
• Advantages - very lightweight.
• Disadvantages - Barely any support and less compressive or heat retaining than their neoprene counterparts.
• Examples - LP603; Mueller contour ladies elbow support

Wrap Around Supports

• Silicon elastic wraps or elasticated bandages are available to provide mild compression and heat retention. They can be wrapped around the elbow as required.
• Suitable for - very mild injuries.
• Advantages - pressure and style of strapping can be adjusted.
• Disadvantages - limited support to the joint.
• Examples - LP692 Silicon elastic wrap

Epicondylitis clasp

McDavid 481

LP603

LP692