A fitted knee brace can greatly reduce the discomfort of a knee injury. Not all knee injuries are the same, however, therefore there are different braces for different injuries. Your doctor will know the best brace for your specific injury. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, some of the various braces include prophylactic, functional and patellofemoral.
Prophylactic Knee Braces
The prophylactic knee brace is intended to protect the medial collateral ligament, or MCL, during a valgus knee stress and to aid in the protection of the cruciate ligaments if the knee suffers a rotational stress. The MCL is a ligament located on the inner knee; it is used to stabilize the knee joint. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, studies have been conducted to test the ability of the prophylactic knee brace to prevent injury. There has been significant differences in opinion about the ability of the brace to reduce MCL injuries. Despite the difference in research results, many football players and coaches still insist on wearing the brace.
Functional Prophylactic Knee Brace for Ligament Tearsfrom BraceAbility
About the Product
Prevents and treats tears and injuries of the ACL, LCL, MCL, and PCL
Features an aerospace grade aluminum frame that is strong, lightweight, and customizable
Low-profile design allows it to be worn during sports and athletic activity (contact sports included)
Includes an adjustable posterior calf cuff that minimizes pressure on the tibia
Size L fits 21"-23.5" above kneecap, 14.5"-16" mid kneecap, and 14.5"-15.75" below kneecap
PaylessmedicalKnee Brace
EA/1 - Dynamic Left Knee Brace, Small, 15-1/2" to 18" Thigh Circumference
Functional Knee Brace
Former football quarterback Joe Namath is responsible for the popularity of the functional knee brace. After sustaining a disabling knee injury, Namath used a functional knee brace and made a successful comeback to the game. The main focus of the brace is to reduce knee instability after an injury to the anterior cruciate ligament, or ACL, and to prevent any further injuries. The ACL is a ligament in the middle of the knee providing rotational stability. Initially, the functional knee brace was used solely for sporting injuries; however, they are now widely used after reconstructive surgery to limit strain in the ACL graft.
Football Knee Brace For Sports Support
About the Product
- ROM higes wish plug-in flex/ext stops
- (1) Extension limitation at: 0°,10°,20°,30°;(2)Flexion limitation at:0°,30°,45°,60°,90°; (3)Immobilization limitation at 0°,30°
- Hypoallergenic silicone-grip strap pads for anti-migration
- Concentric condyle pads correspond to bilateral femoral condyles
- Numbered straps provide desirable counter force and adjust optimal size
Patellofemoral Knee Brace
Patellofemoral braces are used to support the knee of those suffering from anterior knee pain. The brace is widely used due to its ease of use and low cost. The AAFP has documented that there is disagreement in relation to the benefits of a patellofemoral brace as several studies have noted an improvement in pain with the use of the brace while other studies have found that they do not improve pain levels. Despite the disagreement on the benefits, many patients insist on wearing them and report a drop in pain levels and an increase in mobility when using the brace.
DonJoy Lateral J Patella Knee Brace without Hinge
About the Product
- Intended for those suffering from lateral patellofemoral knee pain; Ideal for day-to-day activities and while playing sports; both in and out of the water
- Choose the knee brace to best suit your needs, between Drytex and neoprene; and with or without aluminum hinges for added stability
- Drytex allows for improved airflow and is preferred by individuals in warm weather climates and those with neoprene allergies or irritations
Reported Improvements
Patients who use knee braces have reported an improvement in knee stability and experienced an increase in energy expenditure during athletic activities. There may be limited proprioceptive effects, which relate to unconscious body movement with the use of a knee brace. Due to the inflated associated benefits, use of a knee brace may actually pose a risk for further damage due to over-exertion. With or without a knee brace, patients should be aware that they risk further injuries if they don't give the knee time to heal.
Rehabilitation
The use of a knee brace as a preventative, protective measure is inconclusive. However, knee braces are an essential part of a rehabilitation program after an injury. Combined with physical therapy that incorporates activity modification, flexibility exercises and strength training, a knee brace provides support to the knee while the injury heals. Even when the knee feels better, the athlete should be cautious in resuming normal activities and follow the doctor’s instructions to avoid reinjuring the knee.
Note – This information has been taken from different internet sources.
