subject: The Uses And Benefits Of Wearing Knee Braces [print this page] Musculoskeletal injuries are becoming increasingly common with the vigorous and active lifestyles of people today. The knee is the largest joint in the body and is most susceptible to injury during athletic activities. In the past, knee injuries were detrimental not only to athletes but also to people trying to lead everyday lives. However, with increased understanding of the knee's anatomy combined with the development of less invasive surgery, lighter and stronger knee supports, recovery and rehabilitation for this type of injury have improved tremendously.
Whilst sports enthusiasts can be keen to get back on the pitch or slopes after a knee injury, returning too soon can risk permanent damage. Wearing a knee support after an injury, helps to protect and stabilise the knee and improve rehabilitation endurance. Knee braces work to relieve pressure and improve stability to help aid the recovery and rehabilitation. There are many different kinds of knee braces for all different types of injuries whether damaged by high kinetic energy sports such as skiing, motorsport, or wakeboarding. Lower kinetic energy sports such as football or rugby don't need such high impact control so it's important not only to wear a brace that matches the reason for the injury but the brace also needs to be matched to the ligaments that need support and control. If a knee brace is chosen without professional assistance, there is potentially for inadequate control which can cause long term damage to the knee joint.
All braces should be chosen for their ability to stay where needed and not to migrate down the leg. Any brace that moves is not going to be acting to protect the joint and will be inadequate. For a motor cross injury, it is best to invest in a knee brace that offers high levels of protection and control with comfort to allow a long day of competition or practice. If the injury was caused in a skiing or water sport activity then you need a knee brace that offers support and also control, particularly for the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) which is the most commonly damaged of the knee ligaments. Increased strain occurs when the feet are restricted to a fixed position, so it's a good idea to wear a knee brace that is comfortable, with no slip support insuring the skier can safely and confidently push to their limits and enjoyment.
If patient opts for arthroscopic repair surgery; a procedure done after someone has torn their ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament), a post op knee brace is often used to restrict motion. Whilst the surgery isn't overly invasive to the body, the internal mechanisms of the knee will need to recover and the support of the knee brace will aid the recovery process. After healing and any swelling has gone down, the use of a knee brace will allow earlier return to normal activities and eventually play sports, minimising the risk of damaging the repair or straining the knee ligaments.
There are many benefits to wearing a knee brace; they are used to prevent knee injuries as well as to protect existing injuries. They also provide increased stability, protection and support for many types of knee related injuries.
