What Causes Tennis Elbow Pain?
Tennis elbow is caused by repetitive motions of the forearm and wrist that lead to tiny tears and inflammation in the two forearm tendons. Inflammation causes discomfort and limited function in the wrist and forearm – from a dull ache to burning to sharp pain, along with elbow stiffness, weak grip strength and numbness or tingling in the fingers.
Tendons are made of thick bands of collagen that have reduced blood supply and poor circulation, so they tend to heal slowly or partially. To promote healing, tendons need increased circulation, which boosts oxygen and healing properties to repair and form new collagen fibers.
How do Braces and Compression Sleeves Work?
Tennis elbow sleeves provide additional support to the elbow and forearm to limit movement and enable the tendons, muscles and joints to rest. These products also can help disperse forces in the elbow and forearm that aggravate the area.
In the short term, braces and compression sleeves can help alleviate tennis elbow pain. But once the brace or compression sleeve is removed, and movement resumes discomfort returns. Because they don’t actually heal the injury, braces and compression sleeves shouldn’t be worn over long periods of time or be the only method of treatment.
