Tennis elbow — medically known as lateral epicondylitis — is a common condition caused by overuse of the forearm muscles and tendons. Whether you're an athlete, tradesperson, or someone spending long hours at a desk, the pain can affect grip strength, arm mobility, and daily productivity.
Fortunately, a wide range of medical devices can support the healing process. In this guide, we’ll explore the most effective options available, clarify what they do, and help you choose the right solution for your recovery.
What Counts as a “Medical Device” for Tennis Elbow?
When we talk about medical devices for tennis elbow, we’re referring to tools or physical supports that aid in recovery by:
- Reducing strain on the affected tendons
- Managing pain or inflammation
- Improving blood flow and mobility
- Preventing further aggravation
These are typically non-invasive, over-the-counter tools, many of which can be used at home or as part of a conservative treatment plan.
Most Common Tennis Elbow Devices — Pros & Use Cases
1. Tennis Elbow Brace (Forearm Strap)
A tennis elbow brace is a narrow strap worn just below the elbow joint. It applies targeted pressure to the forearm muscles, reducing stress at the tendon insertion point.
Best for:
- Localized pain during repetitive activity
- Athletes, manual workers, and office professionals
- Early-stage or recurring tendon strain
Pros:
✔️ Direct pain relief
✔️ Compact and adjustable
✔️ Commonly recommended by orthopedic professionals
2. Compression Sleeve
Elbow sleeves offer full coverage with even, mild-to-moderate pressure around the joint. They help support circulation, reduce inflammation, and stabilize the area without restricting motion.
Best for:
- Mild tendonitis
- Post-activity recovery
- Everyday joint support
Pros:
✔️ Comfortable for long wear
✔️ Improves blood flow
✔️ Offers general elbow support
3. Cold Therapy Devices (Ice Wraps / Gel Packs)
These reduce inflammation and numb acute pain, especially immediately after activity. Some sleeves come with integrated gel inserts for targeted cooling.
Best for:
- Post-activity flare-ups
- Initial inflammation phase
- Short-term pain relief
Pros:
✔️ Easy to use at home
✔️ Drug-free pain management
✔️ Supports inflammation control
4. Counterforce Bands
A variation of the elbow strap, counterforce bands are designed to dampen the force transferred through the muscle-tendon junction during movement.
Best for:
- Repetitive motion injury prevention
- Managing strain during sports
Pros:
✔️ Lightweight and discreet
✔️ Similar function to elbow braces
✔️ Often used in combination with sleeves
5. Forearm Support Sleeves
These extend further down the arm and are used when tennis elbow symptoms extend into the wrist or involve multiple muscle groups.
Best for:
- Complex strain affecting both elbow and forearm
- Occupational use requiring wrist/elbow synergy
Pros:
✔️ Full muscle group coverage
✔️ Mild wrist support
6. Massage Tools / Trigger Point Balls
These aren’t braces, but they assist in soft tissue therapy. By releasing tension in the forearm and upper arm muscles, they help reduce pressure on the affected tendon.
Best for:
- Chronic tightness
- Home myofascial release
- Pairing with brace use
Pros:
✔️ Affordable and reusable
✔️ Improves muscle flexibility
✔️ Complements passive treatment devices
7. TENS Units (Optional)
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) devices are sometimes used to manage chronic pain, including tennis elbow. However, their effectiveness varies and they should be used under guidance.
Best for:
- Persistent or radiating pain
- As directed by a healthcare provider
What Actually Helps According to Research?
While every case is unique, braces and sleeves remain the most commonly recommended first-line supportive devices. According to the AAOS, approximately 80 to 95% of patients have success with nonsurgical treatment (e.g., braces, resting, physical therapy, etc.) on their tennis elbow condition.
Other devices — like ice packs and massage tools — are helpful adjuncts, especially during flare-ups or alongside activity modification.
When to Use a Device vs See a Specialist
If your symptoms are:
- Mild to moderate
- Activity-related
- Localized to the outer elbow
…then braces, sleeves, and rest may be sufficient.
However, if your pain is:
- Persistent beyond a few weeks
- Getting worse with rest
- Affecting your arm or grip strength significantly
…it’s important to consult a licensed medical provider. Some cases of tennis elbow may require targeted physical therapy, corticosteroid injections, or imaging to rule out other conditions.
BetterSpine Recommends
At BetterSpine, we focus on function, comfort, and results. Our collection of tennis elbow straps, compression sleeves, and support tools is carefully curated to help you move, recover, and feel better — without guesswork.
Further Reading
Tennis Elbow Brace vs Compression Sleeve: What’s the Difference & Which One Should You Choose?
Final Thoughts
Support devices can play a vital role in reducing pain and helping you recover from tennis elbow — especially when used early. Whether you're looking for targeted tendon relief or all-day joint support, choosing the right device can make a real difference.
