Braces vs. KT Tape for Golfer’s Elbow: Which One Works Better?

Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is a common overuse injury that affects the inner elbow, causing pain, inflammation, and sometimes weakness in the hand and wrist. It often develops from repetitive gripping motions, making it a frequent issue for golfers, tennis players, pickleball players, weightlifters, and even office workers or musicians.

When dealing with a golfer's elbow, two popular options for relief and support are braces and KT Tape. Although both can help reduce discomfort and aid recovery, they work in very different ways. The big question is: which one is the better choice for your needs? This article will break down how braces and KT Tape for golfer’s elbow work, their pros and cons, and help you decide which option is right for you.

Understanding Golfer’s Elbow

Golfer’s elbow occurs when the tendons in the forearm become irritated, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced grip strength. One of the best ways to avoid elbow problems and prevent golf injuries is to strengthen your forearm muscles. Unlike tennis elbow, which affects the outer elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow impacts the inside of the elbow near the medial epicondyle.

This condition isn’t limited to just golfers. It can develop in anyone who repeatedly grips, twists, or lifts heavy objects, from construction workers and weightlifters to musicians and desk workers. Golfer’s elbow testing for patients typically involves a physical examination, where a doctor assesses pain levels and mobility through specific movement tests. The pronator teres and ulnar nerve are often involved, contributing to the discomfort and sometimes causing tingling sensations down the arm.

According to Mayo Clinic experts, your risk of developing golfer’s elbow tendonitis increases if you’re over 40 years old, perform repetitive motions for more than two hours a day, are obese, or are a regular smoker.

Braces for Golfer’s Elbow: How They Work

Braces are a traditional and widely used method for relieving golfer’s elbow pain. These devices apply pressure to the forearm muscles, which, in turn, reduces strain on the tendons and eases discomfort. Braces limit excessive movement and help prevent further irritation, giving the affected area time to heal.

There are two primary types of braces used for golfer’s elbow:

• Forearm straps: These small, adjustable bands are worn just below the elbow. They work by redistributing pressure away from the inflamed tendon, which helps reduce pain during movement. These are often preferred by athletes or workers who still need some mobility while wearing a brace.
  

• Sleeve braces: These are larger, compression-based supports that cover the entire elbow joint. They offer generalized support and warmth, improving blood circulation and potentially reducing stiffness. Sleeve braces are often recommended for chronic cases or for individuals needing long-term relief.
  

Braces are particularly useful when pain is severe, or when the individual needs a more rigid level of support. They allow the tendons to rest and heal as they reduce excessive movement that could aggravate the condition.

Pros of Braces

• Provide strong support and stability, especially for severe cases

• Easy to use—simply strap it on and go

• Ideal for rest periods, as they minimize movement and allow healing

• Help with pain relief by reducing strain on the tendons

Cons of Braces

• Restrict mobility, making it harder to perform certain activities

• Can feel bulky or uncomfortable for extended wear

• Not as adaptable for dynamic movements, making them less ideal for sports or active lifestyles

• May weaken surrounding muscles over time if worn excessively, as they reduce the need for muscles to engage naturally

Still, although braces are an effective tool for managing golfer’s elbow, they are not a one-size-fits-all solution. Some people may find them too restrictive, especially if they need full range of motion for activities such as golf, tennis, or manual labor. In these cases, a more flexible support solution, like KT Tape, may be the better choice.

KT Tape for Golfer’s Elbow: How It Works

KT Tape for golfer’s elbow is a more flexible and lightweight alternative for managing pain and supporting recovery. Instead of restricting movement, KT Tape lifts the skin slightly, which improves local circulation, reduces inflammation, and provides targeted support without limiting flexibility.

When applied correctly, KT Tape for golfer’s elbow pain can:

• Reduce strain on the affected tendons.

• Improve localized blood flow, supporting effective recovery.

• Support muscles and joints while allowing full range of motion.

• Enhance proprioception, or body awareness, which may help with good form and may assist in reducing stress on the affected area.

Unlike braces, KT Tape doesn’t immobilize the arm. This makes it a favorite among athletes, as it provides support without compromising performance. It doesn’t matter if you’re swinging a golf club, lifting weights, or typing at a desk, KT Tape will protect your arm while allowing natural movement.

There’s also a misconception that KT Tape is only a temporary fix, but research shows that it can significantly reduce pain and support range of motion when used consistently. Although it doesn’t replace medical treatment, it is an effective tool for managing discomfort and aiding recovery.

How to Apply KT Tape for Golfer’s Elbow

For KT Tape to help relieve golfer’s elbow effectively, it’s all about following a few simple steps. While it’s not about being perfect, applying the tape with some care ensures you get the longest-lasting support and relief. Unlike a brace that you just strap on, KT Tape can be placed in a way that targets the specific muscles and tendons causing you discomfort—and the best part is, you can adjust the taping method to match your unique pain points and needs.

Here’s a step-by-step taping technique guide on how to apply KT Tape to the elbow:

1. Prepare the skin: Before applying KT Tape, clean the elbow and forearm area thoroughly with soap and water. Any oil, lotion, or sweat can reduce adhesion, making the tape less effective.
   

2. Prepare the tape: Use two to three precut strips of KT Tape, each 10 inches long, depending on the size of your forearm and the severity of your condition. KT Tape comes with pre-cut, rounded edges on the tape which help prevent premature peeling.
   

3. Apply the anchor piece: Always place the first 2 inches on each strip of tape without stretch just below the elbow on the forearm. This acts as the base anchor point for prolonged adhesion.

4. Stretch and apply the middle segment of the strip: Apply the middle of the strip with a light to moderate stretch (25-50%) along the inside of the elbow, following the pain pathway. Be careful not to overstretch, as this could cause discomfort.
   

5. Secure the ends: The final 1-2 inches of the tape should be laid down without any stretch to ensure it adheres properly.
   

6. Smooth it down: Once all strips are applied, rub the tape gently for 10-15 seconds to activate the adhesive and ensure a secure fit.
   

Key areas to target:

• The inside elbow: This is where pain and inflammation are most concentrated.

• Forearm muscles: Supporting the flexor tendons helps relieve tension and helps reduce further irritation.

• Ulnar nerve pathway: Some individuals experience nerve-related discomfort, so taping along this pathway can provide additional relief.

KT Tape typically stays in place for 3-5 days, even through sweat, showers, and activity. To remove it safely, peel the tape off slowly while applying pressure to the skin or using baby oil to loosen the adhesive.

When applied correctly, KT Tape lets your arm move naturally while still providing targeted support and relief. This makes it an ideal option for athletes and active individuals who don’t want to be slowed down by pain.

Braces vs. KT Tape: Which One is Better?

When dealing with golfer’s elbow, choosing between a brace and KT Tape can be tricky. Both offer pain relief, support, and recovery benefits, but they serve different purposes depending on your lifestyle, activity level, and severity of the condition.

Some people might prefer the structured support of a brace, while others might benefit from the flexibility and adaptability of KT Tape. To help you decide, let's compare these two options across different factors:

When to Choose a Brace

A brace is a great option if:

• You need stronger compression for severe pain or chronic cases of golfer’s elbow

• You’re in a resting period and don’t need full mobility

• Your job or daily activities require stability, such as typing, lifting, or manual labor

Braces work best when worn during times of inactivity or during tasks that trigger pain. They prevent excessive movement, which can be useful if you are recovering from a more severe case of golfer’s elbow.

When to Choose KT Tape

KT Tape might be the better choice if: 

• You want support while staying active—ideal for golfers, tennis players, weightlifters, and runners

• You prefer a lightweight, flexible option that doesn’t feel restrictive

• You need targeted relief without limiting movement

• You experience swelling and inflammation; KT tape is a gentle option for sensitive skin

KT Tape is perfect for those who need support but don’t want to sacrifice mobility. If you’re an athlete or an active individual who still wants to maintain daily mobility, KT Tape allows natural movement while providing pain relief and muscle support.

Choosing the Right Support for Your Needs

Both braces and KT Tape offer benefits for golfer’s elbow, but the best choice depends on your lifestyle and level of activity. If you need strong compression and stability, a brace may be helpful, especially during periods of rest. 

Braces are particularly useful for those with severe pain, as they provide targeted pressure that reduces strain on the tendons and promotes healing. They are also a good option for individuals who perform repetitive tasks that might aggravate the condition, such as typing or lifting heavy objects.

However, if you’re an athlete, manual laborer, or simply want to stay mobile while recovering, KT Tape is the superior option. For golfers especially, maintaining flexibility and range of motion is crucial, which is why KT Tape is the right choice for golfers dealing with elbow pain. 

Unlike braces, which can feel restrictive, KT Tape allows for a full range of motion and provides the necessary support to reduce strain on the elbow. This makes it an excellent choice for those who need flexibility, be that for sports, daily activities, or even work that requires frequent arm movement.

Thanks to its lightweight design, breathable fabric, and ability to support muscles without restricting movement, KT Tape is an excellent choice for pain relief and long-term recovery. Many users find that KT Tape helps improve circulation, reduces swelling, and enhances overall comfort throughout the day. When applied correctly, it can provide targeted relief while allowing you to continue your activities with minimal discomfort.

Ready to give it a try? Explore our high-quality breathable cotton fabric and experience the difference for yourself.