The elbow is a hinge joint that connects the large bone of the upper arm (the humerus) to the two bones of the forearm (the radius and ulna). An elbow moves in flexion and extension and is also impacted by the movements of the forearm (pronation and supination). It’s supported by ligaments on each side called the medial (ulnar) and lateral (radial) collateral ligaments.
The inside of the elbow (medial side) is susceptible to injury because of the stresses naturally placed upon the joint with activities like throwing or pitching a baseball. The muscles that cross the elbow and act upon the wrist play a key role in some common elbow injuries. The flexor-pronator muscles that originate on the medial epicondyle of the humerus and the extensor–supinator muscles that originate on the lateral epicondyle of the humerus are frequently involved in overuse style injures (epicondylitis) commonly referred to as golfer’s and tennis elbow respectively. The large biceps and triceps muscles allow for the elbows primary movement of flexion and extension.
The three main nerves of the forearm (ulnar, median, and radial) cross the elbow joint and are easily impacted by both trauma and overuse. The elbow is also home to a bursa, called the olecranon bursa that sits on the bony point of the elbow. When this bursa is contused it can swell significantly. A Mueller Elbow Pad or Mueller Padded Elbow Sleeve can help prevent bone bruises, soft tissue contusions, and damage to other elbow structures that can occur with falls or direct contact.
The Hg80 Elbow Support is equipped with gel pad that provide extreme comfort and support for weak or sore elbows. Designed with lightweight performance materials to enhance all phases of activity – warm up, high intensity and cool down therapy. The Hg80 Elbow Support is recommended for all activities.
Mueller Kinesiology Tape can also be used for common elbow injuries like tennis elbow. Mueller Kinesiology Tape is designed to help increase the natural blood flow around your muscles, Mueller Kinesiology Tape features a revolutionary wave pattern adhesive that moves with your skin and muscles as you heal. Apply it to the skin in patterns to mimic your muscle activation. Kinesiology tape can be effective in helping reduce your discomfort while improving movement patterns during the recovery process.