The use of arm/elbow braces for certain orthopedic arm/elbow conditions is highly recommended by physical therapists, chiropractors, and orthopedists. This is because they help support the muscles and bones whilst alleviating the pain caused by injuries. Elbow/ arm braces are usually characterized by padded inserts that provide compression over the affected arm/elbow joint, or around the affected joint(s) in order to provide compression to the muscles and tendons.
Besides the before-mentioned benefits of arm/elbow braces on arm/elbow injuries, they are also responsible for the following added benefits:
1. Alleviate pain
- Elbow/arm braces also alleviate pain caused by tight and tensed muscles. They work wonders on tensed and stressed muscles by limiting their movements and thus allowing them to rest. Ultimately, the pain that is brought about by tired muscles is relieved.
2. Less-expensive but efficient
- Elbow/arm braces are less-expensive but efficient alternatives to surgical procedures and other forms of medical treatments. The cost of buying these braces is way cheaper than having to constantly take pain killers which only provide temporary relief. Moreover, buying braces is a less expensive endeavor than having to frequently visit your chiropractor, orthopedist, or physical therapist.
3. No need for weekly therapy payments
- With elbow/arm braces, you no longer have to pay for expensive weekly therapy sessions which are quite costly in the long run. Instead, you will only be making a one-off investment for something that can be used every time you require arm/elbow support, for a long time to come.
- Visiting doctors’ offices can be expensive- you pay for the visit, diagnosis, check-ups, and any other medications/prescription drugs that they ask you to buy which can add up to thousands of dollars. Also, some visits could be one-day-only-visits or be as long as two months. Since not many people can afford to see a doctor for such extended periods, it is little surprise that elbow/arm braces are one of the DIY methods that could end up saving you a lot of money.
4. Less painful and non-invasive
- The use of arm/elbow braces is also less painful and non-invasive compared to other surgical and medical procedures that are used in the treatment of elbow/arm injuries. As such, if you are the type of person who cannot tolerate the pain of surgery and/or other medical procedures, then using an arm/elbow brace may be the best treatment option for you.
5. Prevent chronic injury
- Elbow/arm braces are vital in preventing chronic injury. Since prevention is always better than cure, if you cannot avoid activities that put too much strain on your elbows and/or arms, then you might as well use arm/elbow braces if you wish to avoid further injuries.
Important considerations
Elbow/arm braces are highly beneficial but there are a few important considerations to take into account before deciding to buy one in order to ensure that you will enjoy all the benefits that they have to offer. These include:
- Extent or condition of injury
Before buying an elbow brace, it is important to consider the extent of the injury sustained or your condition. This is vital as your condition ultimately determines the type of brace that is most suited to you.
- Make and quality of the brace
Before making a purchase, you also need to consider the make and quality of the brace that you are after. With a quality and top-notch brace that suits your needs, you can be certain that your concerns will be properly addressed and you can expect outstanding results.
Elbow/arm braces are not just worn for protection and relief. They also provide warmth on the injured arm/elbow, consequently promoting healing. Therefore, choose a brace that is designed properly with breathable and light weight material. Lastly, remember to monitor the effectiveness of your selected brace at various stages of the healing process so that you can know when to change it if the need arises.