Strain Reduction of the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis Tendon Proximal Origin Following the Application of a Forearm Support Band

Study Design Experimental laboratory design. Objectives To measure the strain at the proximal origin of the extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB), and to determine the influence of a forearm support band. Background A forearm support band is often used with the intent to decrease stresses around the origin of the wrist extensors. However, the influence of the location of the band has not been studied. Methods and Measures The forearm support band was applied on 8 cadaver arms (mean ± SD age at death, 78.4 ± 10.3 years) and 2 experimental conditions were performed. First, strain measurements were made without applying tension to the distal ECRB tendon, then strain measurements were made with a traction force of 21.5 N applied to the distal ECRB tendon. Strain of the proximal origin of the ECRB, 1.0 cm distal from the lateral epicondyle, was recorded using a strain gauge. The band was mounted on the forearm at distances equal to 80%, 70%, 60%, 50%, 40%, 30%, and 20% of the forearm length as measured from th...