Lateral Epicondyle Tendinopathy Toolkit: Section H - Braces, Splints, and Taping



Counterforce Brace[edit | edit source]

  • Counterforce braces are often used for pain relief in LET.
  • They are thought to diffuse the load through the tendon to less sensitive areas, thereby decreasing the stress on the area of pathology.
  • A combined cadaveric and clinical study showed a 13-15% force reduction of the ECRB origin with the counterforce brace (Meyer et al 2003[1]).






Fig 1 of LET App E
    Figure 1


Wrist Splint[edit | edit source]

  • Wrist splints are less commonly used, but do have some support for temporary pain relief in more acute patients.
  • The goal is to rest the musculotendinous unit originating at the lateral epicondyle.







Fig 2 of LET App E
    Figure 2


Diamond Taping Technique (Vicenzino et al 2003[2])[edit | edit source]

  • This taping technique consists of four tape strips, repeated twice.
  • The tape is laid in a diamond shape while pulling the soft tissues centrally towards the lateral epicondyle.
  • The goal is to decrease tension at the epicondyle attachment.







Fig 3 of LET App E
    Figure 3


Download Lateral Epicondyle Tendinopathy Toolkit: Appendix E - Braces, Splints, and Taping[edit | edit source]

http://physicaltherapy.med.ubc.ca/files/2013/07/Appendix-E.-Lateral-Epicondyle-Tendinopathy-Braces-Splints-and-Taping-June-2013.pdf


Acknowledgements[edit | edit source]

Developed by the BC Physical Therapy Tendinopathy Task Force: Dr. Joseph Anthony, Dr. Angela Fearon, Diana Hughes, Carol Kennedy, Dr. Alex Scott, Michael Yates, & Alison Hoens.

A Physical Therapy Knowledge Broker project supported by: UBC Department of Physical Therapy, Physiotherapy Association of BC, Vancouver Coastal Research Institute and Providence Healthcare Research Institute.

June 2013


References[edit | edit source]

  1. Meyer NJ, Walter F, Haines B, Orton D, Daley RA. Modeled evidence of force reduction at the extensor carpi radialis brevis origin with the forearm support band. J Hand Surg [Am] 2003; 28:279-87.
  2. Vicenzino B, Brooksbank J, Minto J, Offord S, Paungmali A. Initial effects of elbow taping on pain-free grip strength and pressure pain threshold. Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy. Jul 2003; 33(7): 400-7.