Tennis elbow, clinically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a common injury that results from continuously overusing your elbow. In addition to playing tennis, the cumulative motions of painting, cooking, weightlifting, golfing, and yoga can also strain the muscles and tendons in your elbow area, causing tension, discomfort, and pain. Jerry Yoo, DPT, founder and CEO of Next Level Physio, says that if you’re struggling to carry objects or have persistent elbow pain, wearing a tennis elbow brace could relieve some discomfort and pain by moving the point of tension closer to the wrist.
The best tennis elbow braces target the specific tendons or muscles causing you pain. You’ll also want to opt for a style (band or sleeve, soft or hard) that is lightweight but supportive while you’re resting and in motion. Depending on the brand and type, you can expect to spend $7 to $40 on a tennis elbow brace. There are so many options on the market, but we made it easy to find the best ones by researching dozens of tennis elbow braces and evaluating them based on material, support, adjustability, and price to find the most supportive models out there.
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Types of Elbow Braces
There are a few different types of elbow braces to choose from, each designed for different levels of support and various activities.
- Counterforce strap: This simple and common type of brace wraps around the upper part of the forearm and applies pressure to the tendons. These braces are typically lightweight, affordable, and easy to adjust for comfort.
- Compression sleeve: This type of brace provides compression and support without the need for straps. They typically cover a larger part of the arm and place equal pressure across the muscles and tendons rather than focusing on one specific area.
- Armband: Similar to a counterforce strap, an armband applies targeted pressure to the muscles and tendons around the elbow. However, it’s often smaller and worn higher up on the forearm, closer to the elbow joint.
- Hinged elbow brace: Best for more severe cases of tennis elbow, a hinged elbow brace limits the range of motion in your elbow joint with hinges on each side that allow for some movement. These braces are bulkier and often used for recovery from injuries or elbow surgery.
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Latex-free
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Three compression levels
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Multiple color options
Key Specs
Type: Armband | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for all-day support and pain relief with a versatile, user-friendly design that includes multiple strap sizes.
Why We Love It
The Sleeve Stars Tennis Elbow Brace is a comfortable, supportive brace that provides various levels of support to offer pain relief with customizable compression. It comes with three straps in different lengths, so you can choose between minimal, moderate, and maximum targeted compression based on your specific needs. And while elbow braces are not the most stylish accessories, this brace offers some semblance of an aesthetic with eight color options and a sleek design.
Along with tennis elbow, the Sleeve Stars brace is also designed to minimize pain from conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and other sources of elbow discomfort. It’s also easy to put on thanks to its hook-and-loop-style strap, and it’s safe for extended wear without restricting your arm’s movement.
People with sensitive skin will appreciate that this brace is made with latex-free material, which reduces the risk of irritation or allergic reactions. It’s also sweat-absorbent, so you can wear it during a hot tennis match or a rigorous workout without feeling uncomfortable. Plus, it’s way more affordable than other elbow bands on the market.
Potential Flaws
- The Sleeve Stars brace has a tight fit, which may not be comfortable for some users.
- Learning how to switch out the straps can be difficult and time-consuming, so finding the perfect level of compression may take some practice.
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Free replacements
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Breathable fabric
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Multiple color options
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Limited sizing
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May be itchy
Key Specs
Type: Armband | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for color-conscious shoppers who want cushioned support.
Why We Love It
Why settle for one elbow brace when you can get two for the same price? Rakiie’s Elbow Brace comes with not one but two adjustable armbands with built-in EVA cushion pads to alleviate pain and discomfort. Whether you’re dealing with tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, or general overuse injuries, this brace provides targeted compression to help you keep going.
The cushion is absorbent, and the fabric is soft and breathable, making it comfortable to wear during long matches or workouts. Plus, with seven color options to choose from, you can match your elbow brace to your favorite tennis outfit. If something happens to your armbands within 30 days of purchase, Rakiie offers free replacements.
Potential Flaws
- Even though it’s adjustable, there’s only one size option.
- Some people may find the Velcro strap to be itchy against their skin.
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Key Specs
Type: Armband | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for post-injury support that requires some stabilization.
Why We Love It
Pain doesn’t take a day off, and neither does the OTC Band-It. Its small, low-profile design and high-density foam padding make it perfect for all-day wear that doesn’t get in the way of daily tasks. After you adjust the easy-to-use hook-and-loop closure to your liking, the brace’s padding molds to your soft tissue and stabilizes the muscles, providing relief both at rest and during movement.
While it’s designed to treat and prevent tendonitis, people have also found relief using the OTC Band-It for other injuries. Carpal tunnel syndrome, golfer’s elbow, and cumulative trauma disorders are just a few conditions that can be alleviated with this brace’s compressive benefits. Any injury that requires stabilization and targeted pressure may benefit from this recovery tool.
Potential Flaws
- The OTC Band-It is pricier than other options, but if you’re looking for quality over quantity (and something that actually works), this may be worth the investment.
- The adjustable Velcro straps may be irritating to those with sensitive skin.
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Key Specs
Type: Counterforce strap | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for moderate-to-severe elbow pain that disrupts sleep.
Why We Love It
It’s one thing for elbow pain to flare up during an intense match, but it’s a whole other issue when it interferes with your ability to get proper sleep. If you can’t get comfortable in bed, the Reamphy Elbow Brace may help alleviate pain throughout the night. It’s designed with two removable splints that keep the joint in place and soft, breathable nylon and neoprene fabric that prevents sweat build-up on your arm.
Bonus: Like the OTC Band-It, this brace isn’t just for tennis elbow. It can also be used to treat elbow arthritis, ulnar nerve pain, tendonitis, and general sprains and strains. While it shines as a nighttime aid for pain, you can also wear it during the day for additional support.
Potential Flaws
- Neoprene tends to give off a chemical smell, though this should dissipate with time.
- People with sensitive skin may find the Velcro straps irritating.
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Increases elbow strength
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Joint compression
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Multiple size options
Key Specs
Type: Compression sleeve | Adjustable: No
Who It’s For
Best for mild to moderate pain relief during movement and preventing future elbow injuries.
Why We Love It
Strength training can improve your tennis skills, but it also puts an intense strain on your joints. The TUFF Elbow Sleeves can help ease some of that pressure and prevent injury during exercise. Made with 5-millimeter-thick neoprene, these compression sleeves retain heat in your elbow joint, increasing blood flow and promoting stability during heavy lifts.
Unlike braces or bands, these sleeves won’t slip or get in the way of your workout. While they don’t offer the same level of adjustability as an armband or counterforce strap, the TUFF Elbow Sleeves do come in multiple sizes (ranging from XS to 4XL). You can also choose between a tight and comfortable fit, depending on what kind of compression your elbow needs.
Potential Flaws
- These sleeves are on the pricier side compared to other options, but they may be worth it for serious athletes looking to improve their performance and protect their elbows.
- The sleeves only provide general compression, not targeted support for specific areas of the elbow.
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Not adjustable
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No targeted support
Key Specs
Type: Compression sleeve | Adjustable: No
Who It’s For
Best for the athlete who’s always nursing an injury.
Why We Love It
Tired of treating your sore elbows with a bag of frozen peas? TheraICE’s Hot and Cold Compression Sleeve can help. The sleeve design stabilizes your joints while simultaneously providing either hot or cold therapy to your strained muscles. Simply place it in the freezer for a cold compress or microwave it for warm relief to instantly soothe your elbow pain.
Because of its versatile design, athletes of all skill levels should keep this multi-functional recovery tool on hand. It works for elbows and other areas like knees, ankles, quads, or shins. And thanks to the sleeve’s 360-degree wrap and multiple size options, you’ll enjoy full coverage of the affected area without worrying about it slipping off.
Potential Flaws
- The TheraICE sleeve is not adjustable, so be sure to consult the sizing chart before buying.
- While the sleeve is compressive, it doesn’t offer targeted support for specific areas of the elbow.
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Breathable fabric
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Full coverage
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Multiple color options
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May be itchy
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Not adjustable
Key Specs
Type: Compression sleeve | Adjustable: No
Who It’s For
Best for layering under shirts and preventing sweat buildup during all-day wear.
Why We Love It
If your 9-to-5 is to blame for your elbow pain, you might want to try PowerLix’s Elbow Orthopedic Brace. Its knitted, technical design lines up with your joints to provide targeted support to help you power through your workday with minimal discomfort. And thanks to the fabric’s four-way stretch, your elbow gets full-coverage compression without sacrificing mobility or flexibility.
While other sleeves seem to attract sweat, PowerLix’s moisture-wicking fabric keeps your arm cool and dry no matter how long you wear it. It also limits bad odors that may develop from sweat buildup. Four sizes and three color options are available, including a beige shade that’s perfect for blending in under work clothes.
Potential Flaws
- Some users have reported the material being itchy, so be sure to test it out before committing to all-day wear.
- Sleeves are not adjustable, so make sure you measure your elbow correctly before purchasing.
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Key Specs
Type: Armband | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for tennis players and golfers who need pain relief during play.
Why We Love It
Trying to swing a club or racket with a strained elbow is no fun, which is why Push Sports’ Elbow Brace was designed with athletes in mind. Its soft pad applies localized pressure to specific forearm muscles to relieve those overworked areas. While it’s a great treatment for tennis elbow, it also works for golfer’s elbow, which is clinically known as medial epicondylitis.
Another major win for this brace is its stable fit. The Velcro strap keeps it in place no matter how much you move, so you won’t have to pause your game to adjust it. And for added convenience, this brace is machine-washable, making it easy to clean after a sweaty match.
Potential Flaws
- This brace comes at a higher price point compared to other options.
- Limited sizing means it may not fit all users comfortably.
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No targeted support
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Not adjustable
Key Specs
Type: Compression sleeve | Adjustable: No
Who It’s For
Best for a snug fit you don’t mind wearing all day.
Why We Love It
Most people can only stand the tight fit of a compression sleeve for a few hours. But that’s because they haven’t felt Kunto Fitness’ Elbow Brace’s four-way stretch fabric. A blend of nylon, spandex, and rubber, it lightly conforms to the shape of your arm and keeps the elbow stabilized without suffocating your skin. The fabric is ventilated to allow for breathability and airflow—a godsend for people who need to wear it all day.
Its full-coverage design (and beige color option) means you can wear this brace underneath clothes without worrying about it being too noticeable. With five sizes to choose from, you can find the perfect fit for your arm. However, the brand recommends opting for smaller if you’re between sizes to get the maximum support.
Potential Flaws
- The fabric doesn’t provide targeted support, just overall compression.
- Because it’s a sleeve, it’s not adjustable.
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Key Specs
Type: Armband | Adjustable: Yes
Who It’s For
Best for moderate support to relieve pain from injuries with an adjustable, comfortable fit.
Why We Love It
The ACE Sport Tennis Elbow Strap features an air cushion that allows you to support specific areas with targeted compression. Similar to our Best Overall pick, its adjustable strap can be tightened or loosened to your liking. But instead of three separate bands with different sizes, the ACE band includes one 5.13-inch strap with a one-size-fits-most design.
The air cushion is inserted in a built-in pocket within the strap, adding extra compression to problem areas in addition to the 360-degree compression from the strap itself. Made with breathable materials, the strap is also a good choice for those seeking support while playing tennis or other sports to wick away moisture and keep skin dry. At 1.44 ounces, it’s a lightweight option for moderate pain relief that can be worn for extended periods of time.
Potential Flaws
- The one-size-fits-most strap may not fit users with especially large or small forearms.
- It only provides moderate support, so it isn’t ideal for those dealing with more severe injuries.
What to Look for in a Tennis Elbow Brace
- Targeted Compression: Depending on where the pain is localized, you may want a brace that offers targeted compression to specific forearm muscles. According to orthopedic physician John Hinson, MD, you want that targeted pressure to hit just below or slightly away from the damaged area. This placement relieves stress and allows for decreased inflammation and healing.
- Support Without Restriction: While elbow support is important, it shouldn’t restrict your movement. Ensure that the brace you choose allows for a full range of motion so you don’t feel restricted when playing or working out.
- Fit and Adjustability: How well a brace fits can make or break the effectiveness of its support. Gautreaux says a brace that’s too tight can limit movement, while a brace that’s too loose may not provide proper support. Adjustable options offer the most personalized fit.
- Breathable and Durable Materials: Because so many people wear braces while working out or playing a sport, the material should, at the very least, be breathable. Nylon, polyester, and spandex blends are a good option. Durability is also important, so look for braces that are double-stitched or reinforced in high-stress areas.
How Tennis Elbow Braces Work
Studies have shown that tennis elbow braces, also called counterforce braces, can reduce pain and increase grip strength by applying pressure to the muscles and tendons around the elbow. Most models are designed with a hook and loop closure system, allowing for adjustable pressure and support, while others slip on like a sleeve. All braces aim to provide targeted compression to the affected area through gel pads, straps, or other mechanisms.
Tips for Wearing a Tennis Elbow Brace
If you want to find relief from an elbow brace, you have to wear one that fits. Hinson says to look for one that applies the right amount of directed compression and doesn’t limit your ability to move. As for how to wear it, Gautreaux says that many people place the brace too low on the forearm. Position it right below the elbow joint with the compression pad directly over the muscle rather than the tendon. This will reduce the strain on the tendon and help alleviate pain.
How We Selected the Best Tennis Elbow Braces
After researching dozens of tennis elbow braces, we selected the top 10 based on their compression, materials, comfort, sizing options, and adjustability. We spent several hours looking at customer reviews, consulting with orthopedic physicians and physical therapists, and examining product details to find the most effective options on the market for relieving tennis elbow pain. When assessing each elbow brace, we paid close attention to the following key criteria:
- Compression: The main purpose of an elbow brace is to compress the affected area. We looked for braces that offer both full-coverage compression for overall support and targeted compression for specific muscles.
- Materials: The materials used in a brace can greatly impact its comfort and effectiveness. We focused on braces made of breathable and durable fabrics such as nylon and neoprene.
- Comfort: Wearing a brace for long periods of time can be uncomfortable. So, we looked for options with features like moisture-wicking fabrics and adjustable straps to ensure maximum comfort.
- Sizing Options: Everyone’s arm size and shape are different, so we included braces in a wide range of sizes. We also considered brands that provide clear sizing guides for the best fit.
- Adjustability: Having an adjustable brace allows for a more personalized fit, which can make a big difference in how effective it is. We looked for options with adjustable straps or designs that allow for customizable compression levels.
Our Experts
We consulted with both orthopedic physicians and physical therapists to get their expert opinions on what makes a quality tennis elbow brace. Their insights helped us determine the key factors to consider when selecting the best braces for tennis elbow pain relief. More on our experts:
- John Hinson, MD, orthopedic physician with the Palm Beach Orthopedic Institute
- Amanda Gautreaux, PT, DPT, physical therapist with FYZICAL and former college tennis player
- Jerry Yoo, DPT, physical therapist and founder and CEO of Next Level Physio
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of brace for tennis elbow?
The right tennis elbow brace for your needs depends on your specific injuries or causes of pain. Counterforce straps, compression sleeves, and armbands generally provide moderate levels of support, while hinged elbow braces provide high levels of support for injury recovery or more severe cases of tennis elbow. We recommend the Sleeve Stars Tennis Elbow Brace as the best overall option for tennis elbow pain relief.
Do tennis elbow braces really work?
Tennis elbow braces are effective for relieving pain from tennis elbow by adding support and compression to the tendons and ligaments in or around the elbow. Braces for more severe injuries can also limit the elbow’s range of motion, which can encourage healing and limit pain.
How do you properly wear a brace for tennis elbow?
Tennis elbow armbands and counterforce straps should typically be worn just below your elbow on your forearm. Compression sleeves and hinged elbow braces should wrap around the elbow and extend slightly up your arm and down your forearm for maximum support.
How many hours per day should I wear a tennis elbow brace?
In general, it’s safe to wear most types of tennis elbow braces all day, especially if you are recovering from an injury that requires extra support to heal properly. However, it’s typically recommended to remove the brace overnight to prevent it from restricting circulation. If the brace feels like it’s restricting your circulation, you may need to remove it temporarily or determine if it’s fitted too tightly.
Why Trust Verywell Fit
As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them.
