How do I Choose the Best Tennis Elbow Brace?

Many people experience soreness and tenderness in the outer elbow as a result of playing tennis, playing or doing other activities that require the use of similar muscles and ranges of motion. This condition has many common names, such as tennis elbow, shooter's elbow or archer's elbow. Using a good tennis elbow brace, also called a tendinitis brace, can prevent or even completely alleviate the pain associated with this condition. Depending on the level of pain that you experience and how active you are, you might find one brace more appealing than another based on certain qualities, such as price, comfort and durability. Above all, the best tennis elbow brace will minimize the pain you experience.

A typical tennis elbow brace can be purchased at a grocery store, at a pharmacy, at a sporting good store or even through an online retailer. Several companies manufacture these braces, and there are literally hundreds of different braces available for tennis elbow treatment. Prices range from less than $10 US Dollars (USD) to more than $100 USD. The relatively low cost of a tennis elbow brace makes it affordable for buyers to try many different brands and styles. In general, the price correlates with the brace's material composition and overall quality.

The material composition of a brace contributes to the level of support, comfort and durability. Nylon and neoprene are two common types of materials used in a tennis elbow brace, with nylon braces usually being cheaper than neoprene braces. Nylon is typically a more breathable material than neoprene, which could be important for individuals who sweat more than average. On the other hand, neoprene is softer and more flexible than nylon. Other possible materials used with tennis elbow braces include cotton and spandex.

In addition to analyzing material composition, you should review the different options that braces offer. Some braces simply slip on, and others can be tightened or adjusted with straps. A hinged brace, although much larger than a typical brace, provides a high level of support at the expense of flexibility, range of motion and comfort.

Tennis elbow braces come in various shapes and sizes, including knitted, aircast, cotton, elastic, foam, neoprene, nylon, hinged and others. Most types of elbow braces are relatively inexpensive compared to most other medical devices. Finding a quality brace the first time around can save time, money, frustration and elbow pain.