What is an underarm bracelet?
A forearm bandage is a cover or type of stocking that is put over the forearm. A forearm bandage gives the muscles of the forearm stability and support. In addition, the blood circulation of the muscles and soft tissues in the forearm is increased by the compression of the forearm bandage. There are special designs for the forearm for some indications, such as tennis elbow. These are not necessarily long covers, but Velcro bandages at elbow level, depending on the design.
Indications for a forearm bracelet
The indication for a forearm bracelet is in case of a strain, injury or after an operation in the area of the forearm. Frequent and often diagnosed problems are for example tennis elbow, “golfer’s elbow” or also tendosynovitis. The bandage gives the forearm more stability and support, but does not cause it to lose its mobility and flexibility in everyday life, at work or during sports activities.
A forearm bandage can also provide relief in the event of swelling or inflammation. Its compressing effect supports the blood circulation and the decongestion of the tissue. For tennis elbow (epicondylitis medialis) there are bandages available from various manufacturers.
All of them have the aim of protecting and supporting the points of attachment of the muscles at the medial epicondylus by the compression of the bandage. The affected person performs the movements involving the elbow more carefully. This reduces the overstimulation and inflammation of tennis elbow.
The compression also leads to increased blood circulation. Inflammation of one or more tendon sheaths in the hand and forearm (tendovaginitis) requires immobilisation of the affected joint areas. Orthoses or bandages are suitable for this.
The advantage of a bandage is that it does not impair the mobility of the hand and forearm and can be worn for a long time. With an orthosis, long-term use can lead to restricted movement and loss of muscle strength, since the joints are completely immobilized. A good forearm brace can accelerate healing and also prevent the recurrence of tendonitis.