Golfer’s Elbow Brace: Best Braces and Alternatives for Golfer’s Elbow Relief

Golfer’s elbow may sound like a problem exclusive to the fairway, but it’s surprisingly common among everyday individuals — from office workers to gym-goers to weekend gardeners. Also known as medial epicondylitis, this condition causes pain and tenderness on the inside of the elbow, where the forearm tendons attach.

Repetitive movements — gripping, lifting, wrist flexion — are often to blame. Fortunately, there are multiple effective ways to manage and relieve golfer’s elbow, even without surgery or injections. In this guide, we’ll explore the most recommended supports and therapies: from braces to sleeves to movement-based recovery.

1. Tennis Elbow Brace: Also used as Golfer's Elbow Brace

Despite the name, a tennis elbow brace is often the go-to solution for treating golfer’s elbow too. While tennis elbow affects the outer part of the elbow and golfer’s elbow affects the inner, the mechanism is similar: both involve irritated tendons at the elbow joint.

What matters is brace placement — not the name. A strap-style brace worn about an inch below the elbow can relieve pressure on the overworked tendon. If the pain is on the inner side of your elbow, the brace simply needs to apply compression to that area. At BetterSpine, our Tennis Elbow Brace collection offers precisely this kind of targeted support. With adjustable straps and low-profile designs, they’re easy to wear during work or workouts, helping you stay active while you recover.

2. Compression Elbow Sleeves: All-Day Comfort and Support

While strap braces are great during high-strain activities, compression sleeves offer continuous support throughout the day. These sleeves help promote circulation, reduce inflammation, and provide warmth — all of which are beneficial when managing tendon-related injuries like golfer’s elbow.

Compression sleeves don’t apply pressure in the same pinpointed way a strap does, but they offer a more holistic approach — easing discomfort during general movement, rest, or even post-activity recovery. They’re especially useful for those experiencing persistent low-grade soreness or morning stiffness in the elbow or forearm.

3. Exercises: The Role of Exercises in Long-Term Recovery

Proper rehabilitation exercises can play an important part in recovery. Strengthening and conditioning the muscles and tendons around the elbow helps reduce recurrence and build resilience.

Early on, it's important to avoid aggressive movements. Once pain levels reduce, eccentric exercises (where the muscle lengthens under tension) have been shown to promote tendon healing. Simple forearm wrist curls, wrist extensions, and grip-strengthening exercises — when done gradually — can help rebuild stability and prevent re-injury. For a more comprehensive guide to golfer's elbow exercises, read our article here.

A physical therapist can help tailor a progression, but even consistent at-home routines using light resistance bands or small weights can make a noticeable difference over time.

4. KT Tape: A Lightweight, Dynamic Option

Kinesiology tape — or KT tape — is another option for relieving golfer’s elbow discomfort. When applied correctly, KT tape gently lifts the skin and fascia, reducing pressure on the underlying inflamed tissues. For golfer’s elbow, it can help offload stress from the medial forearm tendons while still allowing a full range of motion.

It’s not a cure-all, and proper taping technique is essential. But for athletes or active individuals who want lightweight support without a brace, KT tape can offer a balance of flexibility and comfort during movement-heavy tasks.

5. Stretching: A Simple, Underrated Tool

Finally, never underestimate the power of stretching for golfer's elbow. Tight forearm muscles can contribute to the tendon strain that leads to golfer’s elbow. Gentle wrist flexor stretches — especially before and after physical activity — can improve mobility and reduce tension on the tendon insertion point at the elbow.

Stretching should feel light and sustainable, not painful. The goal isn’t to force range of motion, but to reintroduce length and softness to tissues that are often tight and overworked. A consistent routine, even just 5 minutes a day before sleep, for example, can go a long way in preventing flare-ups.

Final Words

Managing golfer’s elbow isn’t about choosing a single fix — it’s about combining support and smart recovery. A tennis elbow brace, when worn correctly, provides immediate relief for inner elbow pain. A compression sleeve adds comfort and helps reduce inflammation. Exercises and stretches rebuild long-term strength, while KT tape offers flexible support for movement-based routines.

With the right tools and a thoughtful approach, most cases of golfer’s elbow improve without invasive treatments. However, if your symptoms persist, worsen, or begin to affect daily activities despite rest and support, it’s important to consult a qualified healthcare professional. They can help assess the condition more accurately and recommend a tailored treatment plan for your needs.

Best of luck! - BetterSpine