Yes, elbow braces are eligible for purchase with a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA).
Why Are Elbow Braces FSA/HSA Eligible?
Elbow braces are used to treat and manage medical conditions such as tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow (medial epicondylitis), arthritis, bursitis, tendonitis, sprains, and post-surgical recovery. Under IRS Code Section 213(d), medical devices that are used to treat, manage, or alleviate a specific condition qualify as eligible medical expenses.
Elbow braces are considered durable medical equipment (DME) and are eligible for FSA and HSA reimbursement whether used temporarily during recovery or for long-term symptom management. A prescription is not required for over-the-counter elbow braces.
FSA- and HSA-eligible elbow braces include:
Compression braces for tendonitis or overuse injuries
Wraparound braces or straps for tennis or golfer’s elbow
Hinged elbow braces for post-injury or surgical support
Adjustable braces with immobilization features
These braces are considered eligible when intended to treat a medical condition—not simply for comfort or athletic support.
What’s Not Covered?
Elbow supports or sleeves marketed solely for sports performance, endurance, or comfort may not qualify. These include compression sleeves worn for muscle warmth or fatigue prevention without medical claims.
Products bundled with non-medical features (such as vibration or heat for relaxation) may also be ineligible unless clearly labeled and used for medical treatment.
How to Buy Elbow Braces with Your FSA or HSA
You can purchase elbow braces directly at buyFSA.com using your FSA or HSA card. Every item listed on buyFSA.com is FSA- and HSA-eligible, so there’s no guesswork or reimbursement hassle.
If purchasing elsewhere:
Use your FSA or HSA card at checkout (in-store or online)
Confirm the product is labeled for injury treatment or medical use
Save your receipt in case your plan administrator requests documentation
Avoid performance-only gear not intended to treat or manage a condition
