Football players are susceptible to numerous injuries as a result of the physical nature of the sport. The injuries can occur anywhere on the body, with various levels of severity. One of the most effective ways to prevent and treat these injuries is to wear a brace that limits range of motion and promotes a natural healing process. For example, a tricep brace can be worn on the upper arm to protect the triceps muscle that is responsible for elbow extension.
Tricep Injuries
Every year, football players ranging from NFL players to youth players suffer various injuries to the tricep, ranging from a mild sprain or strain to a partial or complete rupture. While a partial or complete rupture typically requires surgery or extensive physical therapy, many players choose to wear a tricep brace for treating less severe tricep injuries. The tricep injuries generally are a result of a direct blow or fall on the elbow that causes the triceps tendon or muscle to tear.
Rehab
During rehab and physical therapy for a tricep injury, most defensive and offensive lineman are encouraged not to play. These lineman positions place a significant amount of pressure and stress on the tricep muscle that the brace can't support. Skill position players, however, such as receivers, quarterbacks and running backs, typically are allowed to wear a tricep brace and play during therapy. After rehab, most players return to playing will a full recovery.
Cuff
The most common type of tricep brace is a cuff that applies pressure on the upper arm. The neoprene cuff wraps around the bicep and tricep to apply dynamic pressure that reduces range of motion and elbow extension. As a result, the brace helps to disperse the stress and pull on the muscle to prevent injuries and promote recovery.
Rules
The football rule book outlines specific rules and regulations regarding wearing braces during competition. If the tricep brace is made from a hard substance such as plastic or rubber, the brace must be covered on the exterior by half-inch of closed-cell foam. This helps to protect the other players from injuries as a result of the hard material or sharp edges. Some leagues also might require a doctor's note for wearing a tricep brace.
References
- U.S. National Library of Medicine; Triceps Tendon Ruptures in Professional Football Players; March 2004
- The Brace Shop: Cho-Pat Bicep/Tricep Cuff
- "USA Today"; Steelers DE Aaron Smith Remains Inactive with Triceps Injury; Nate Davis; January 2011
- MayoClinic.com; Sprains and Strains - Definition; Mayo Clinic Staff; October 2009
- Sports MD; Torn Triceps Tendon -- A Rare But Serious Injury; Asheesh Bedi; October 2010
- Iowa High School Athletic Association: Rules on Wearing Special Equipment and Braces for 2005-06
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