Knee braces act as supports for an injured or painful knee. They can also be used to prevent sports injuries to the knees. Orthopedic knee braces are made from plastic, foam, metal and straps.
Who can Benefit from Knee Braces?
Knee braces are a good treatment option for athletes and people who suffer from painful knees. Orthopedic knee braces are not expensive, are easily available and comfortable to wear.
Usually, there are 2 reasons to wear a knee brace:
- Pain relief
- Structural support
Types of Knee Braces
There are mainly four types of knee braces –
- Prophylactic braces – These braces could protect the knee from sports injuries.
- Functional braces – These braces can provide support to an injured knee and can be used after a knee injury.
- Rehabilitative braces – These braces are designed to restrict knee movement to protect injured ligaments when the knee is not yet healed.
- Unloader/Offloader braces are prescribed for osteoarthritis patients.
Are Knee Braces Effective?
Knee braces can provide knee stability or prevent injury while protecting the knee. Knee braces have been found to result in recovery from an increasing the number of knee injuries in athletes.
Your orthopedic surgeon will help you make decision after careful evaluation of your condition, symptoms and lifestyle.
