Elbow/Wrist Pain and Injuries
The elbow joint is made up of the lower end of the upper arm bone, or humerus, and the upper ends of the two bones (the radius and the ulna) of the forearm. With your palm facing forward, the radius is on the outside of the forearm (on the thumb side) and the ulna is on the inside (or the ‘pinky’ side). At the place where they meet at the elbow joint, these bones are lined with a smooth type of cartilage which allows the bones to glide smoothly over one another during elbow motion.
About Elbow/Wrist Bracing
Elbow and wrist braces are used for a variety of purposes including injuries to the hand and thumb.
Elbow braces, sleeves and straps
Elbow bracing is designed to apply pressure to the muscles of the forearm, taking pressure of off the injured tendon. Wear them while working or playing sports, usually up to six weeks while the tendon recovers. These types of elbow supports are typically made of fabric, like neoprene, and sometimes plastic for added support. Elbow bracing should not be used as a sole means of treatment, but should supplement muscular stretching and strengthening exercises.
Wrist braces
These are worn to support or immobilize the wrist, and to take stress off of the tendons. Wrist braces are commonly used for chronic conditions like arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome or tendinitis. The level of flexibility of the brace is determined by the injury or condition. Braces that immobilize the wrist are typically more rigid and prevent the wrist from twisting or bending.
Thumb braces
Thumb braces, or spicas, are used when tendinitis affects the thumb side of the wrist. These braces cover the wrist, bottom of the hand and the thumb joint.
Post-op braces
These types of braces are worn post operatively or post injury, and are designed to immobilize and control range of motion while the joint recovers. The type of brace used is dependent upon physician protocols and indications. To find out more about elbow and wrist braces, go to PediaCare Elbow/Wrist Braces