Elbow Pain & Epicondylitis

Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow) and medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow) are among the most common repetitive strain injuries affecting the upper extremity. Despite their names, they affect not just athletes but anyone whose work or daily activities involve repetitive forearm rotation, gripping, or wrist extension — from computer users to construction workers. Conservative treatment, including elbow counterforce bracing, resolves most cases without surgery.

Common Causes of Elbow Pain & Epicondylitis

• Lateral epicondylitis (tennis elbow): overuse of wrist extensor muscles inserting at the lateral epicondyle
• Medial epicondylitis (golfer’s elbow): overuse of wrist flexors inserting at the medial epicondyle
• Ulnar nerve entrapment (cubital tunnel syndrome) causing inner elbow and forearm pain
• Olecranon bursitis (swelling at the tip of the elbow)
• Elbow osteoarthritis in older adults or following trauma
• Bicep tendon tear or biceps tendonitis at the elbow
• Hyperextension injuries from falls or sports

Common Symptoms:

• Localized tenderness over the lateral or medial epicondyle
• Pain with gripping, twisting, or lifting activities
• Weak grip strength
• Pain that radiates down the forearm
• Morning stiffness near the elbow
• Aggravated by repeated forearm rotation (turning a doorknob, pouring)

How Is Elbow Pain Treated?

• Counterforce elbow brace/epicondylitis strap
• Rest and activity modification (avoid aggravating motions)
• Eccentric wrist extensor and flexor strengthening exercises
• NSAIDs and topical anti-inflammatory gels
• Corticosteroid injections for acute flare-ups
• Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) for chronic tendinopathy
• PRP (platelet-rich plasma) injections
• Surgical debridement in refractory cases (rare)

How an Epicondylitis Strap Helps:

A counterforce brace applies compression just below the epicondyle, altering the line of pull of the forearm muscles and distributing forces away from the inflamed tendon attachment. This simple mechanism provides significant pain relief during activities and allows patients to remain productive while the tendon heals. Clinical data shows that counterforce bracing reduces pain by up to 40% in lateral epicondylitis during functional activities. RCAI’s elbow supports are low-profile enough to wear under long sleeves and come with adjustable compression pads for customized pressure.

All products are available with a physician’s prescription. Contact your healthcare provider or orthotist to determine the right brace for your condition.