A Guide to Knee Braces
Sports are one of the best exercises for the body as it keeps our blood circulating properly, while also making us stronger and more flexible with regular practice and proper training. When playing a sport, however, individuals must understand the risks involved especially in strenuous sports, and take steps to minimize these dangers which happens more often when there is no sufficient training. These risks are actually inevitable even for the most seasoned players, as any sports that requires physical contact with other players often become rough as it goes, so it is only important to put on protective apparels to prevent severe injuries from collision. These supportive apparels are also available in forms that can be used for injury management, aside from the usual types used in sports to protect joints.
Knee supports are garments worn temporarily to prevent further injury and swelling on the knee, and reduce discomfort, which is often helpful as an initial intervention when waiting for professional treatment. If using this type of support to control injury, professionals must be consulted first to determine the proper type, and to have the medical case addressed properly, as the gear can only offer temporary aid.
For new consumers that need more information about this gear, here are some of the common support types that are available in the market today:
Stabilizing Support- this adjustable type is often seen on athletes that have recovered from a recent mild ligament injury as it offers fair support during their sports activity.
Hinged Knee Support- this type is ideal for individuals that have damaged a ligament as it gives more support and protection during and after the recovery period, especially during a game, but is not recommended to be used in other sport types because it has parts made from metal.
3. Closed Patellar Support – commonly used when jogging or walking briskly during exercises, and can aid in minimizing knee pain and swelling, but cannot be continuously worn as it can be too constricting especially when bending the knees.
4. Open Patellar Support – an opened version for the patellar support, which can be used daily unlike the closed type, as it does not compress the knee cap.
Knee Tendon Gear- provides adequate support for the knee tendons, which is best for people restricted by pain in the area during running and jumping exercises.
Before wearing a knee support, it is also important to consider what type of injury or sports it will be used for, as most types are only indicated for specific cases, and wearing the wrong type can aggravate your case more. The gear’s intended amount of use must also be kept in mind to keep your knees from further injuries caused by excessive and prolonged constriction, which is risky when having to keep moving while wearing it.
Advanced reading: see this page