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Taping Tennis Elbow: How Sports Tape Compares to Sleeves and Straps

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Table of Contents

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, medically known as lateral epicondylitis, is a condition caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons on the outside of the elbow that control wrist extension. It frequently occurs in individuals who repeatedly tense or rotate the forearm, for example, in sports or manual labor. This condition can lead to tenderness, pain, and grip weakness.

Buy Rigid Tape for Tennis Elbow

Source: orthoinfo

Looking for a video on how to tape a tennis elbow using rigid tape or zinc oxide tape?

Location of pain in lateral epicondylitis.

Reproduced and modified from Griffen L (ed): Essentials of Musculoskeletal Care, Third Edition. © American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 2005.

Causes, Risk Factors, and Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

CategoryDetails
Main CauseOveruse and microtears in the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB) tendon, which helps stabilize the wrist when the elbow is straight. Repetitive stress leads to pain over the outer (lateral) elbow.
Additional CauseThe ECRB muscle may rub against bony prominences when the elbow bends/straightens, leading to gradual wear over time.
Common ActivitiesRepetitive forearm or wrist movements in sports and jobs. High-risk occupations: painters, plumbers, carpenters, auto workers, cooks, butchers. Racquet sports (especially with poor technique or equipment) can also contribute.
Age RangeMost common between 30–50 years old, but can affect any age group with risk factors.
Unknown OriginIn some cases, lateral epicondylitis occurs without a clear repetitive injury (idiopathic).
Typical SymptomsGradual onset of pain, burning on the outer elbow, weak grip strength, occasional night pain. Symptoms often worsen with forearm activity such as holding a racquet, turning a wrench, or shaking hands.

How Sports Tape Supports Tennis Elbow

Rigid Sports Tape offers targeted support by reinforcing the extensor muscles without restricting natural movement. It also enhances proprioceptive feedback, helping you subconsciously adjust movement patterns to reduce stress around the elbow joint.

A recent study found that elbow taping significantly improved proprioception compared to no tape or placebo, and the effect lasted at least 30 minutes at certain flexion angles.

Simplified Rigid Tape (or Zinc Oxide Tape) Method (Youtube Video)

YouTube thumbnailYouTube icon

Tape vs. Strap vs. Compression Sleeve: A Quick Comparison

Support TypeProsCons
Sports Tape (Rigid / Zinc Oxide Tape)Targeted support, lightweight, enhances proprioceptionSingle-use; requires proper application
Elbow StrapDelivers direct compression over tendon areaCan shift during intense activity
Compression SleeveComfortable for extended wear, improves warmthProvides general support, not specific
compression sleeve pros and cons for tennis elbow
elbow strap pros and cons for tennis elbow
sports tape pros and cons for tennis elbow

When to Use Each Support Option

  • Sports Tape is Ideal during training or movement-focused sessions to maintain performance and muscle awareness.
  • Elbow Strap is Useful during repetitive gripping or activities that directly aggravate the extensor muscles.
  • Compression Sleeve is Best for ongoing comfort, mild swelling, or passive support during low-intensity recovery days.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Aid for Your Tennis Elbow

There’s no single solution, each support tool offers unique advantages depending on your activity needs. Athletes may cycle between using tape, straps, or sleeves to find the best fit.

Find a guide for broader elbow support, especially if you’re dealing with hyperextension in our full Elbow Strapping Guide.

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