In order to choose the best golfer's elbow brace, you must first evaluate what purpose the brace will serve. Be sure to work closely with your doctor in order to discover what style of brace will be best for you. He or she will typically want to run several tests in order to determine the severity of your injuries. In addition, remember that no matter the style of brace, lightweight braces are usually best in order to prevent shoulder and upper arm injuries. Finally, monitor the brace in order to determine if it is serving a purpose. An ineffective brace is, in some cases, worse than no brace at all.
One of the most important first steps when choosing the best golfer's elbow brace is to determine why exactly you need the brace. If you are at the beginning stages of golfer's elbow, a brace that protects the elbow from further aggravation will be best for you. Typically, these braces offer warmth and support to the injured area, without minimizing circulation. If you are seriously handicapped by the severity of your golfer's elbow, however, you should look for a brace that provides complete stabilization of the joint. While this will prevent any movement of the elbow, it will also ensure greater results during the healing process.
Once you have determined what type of golfer's elbow brace will be best for you, you should look for a brace that is of the right weight. No matter how restrictive a brace you require, for best results, the brace should be as light as possible. A golfer's elbow brace that is too heavy can cause major shoulder injuries, and can cause even more serious issues down the road. Ideally, your golfer's elbow brace should be made of a lightweight material, and use Velcro fasteners. While metal fasteners may seem more sanitary, they can place an unnecessary stress on the muscles of your arm.
For best results when choosing a golfer's elbow brace, be sure to consistently evaluate the effectiveness of the brace. Each person is different, and therefore needs a brace that meets their specific requirements. If you have worn your golfer's elbow brace for a significant period of time, and have not noticed any changes in the severity of your golfer's elbow, you may want to consult with your doctor. He or she may want to run additional tests in order to determine the cause of your ongoing elbow pain.