Impairments and injuries of the knee are common and can be debilitating. Knee braces have gained popularity among athletes, sports medicine specialists and those who suffer from ailments of the knee. Doctors and trainers typically prescribe or recommend them for the treatment or prevention of musculoskeletal injuries of the knee joint. If you are considering a knee brace, consult your orthopedist in order to determine which type is appropriate for you.
Prophylactic Knee Braces
Prophylactic braces are designed to prevent knee injuries that commonly occur during contact sports, such as football, soccer and rugby. According to American Academy of Family Physicians, these types of braces effectively protect the MCL ligament, support the cruciate ligaments and improve proprioception of the knee joint. The disadvantages of prophylactic knee braces include an increased chance of injury in some populations, a false sense of security and the risk of injury to others during contact. Individuals with ACL-deficient knees or with a ligament rupture that requires surgery should not use these braces
Functional Knee Braces
Functional knee braces provide stability and protection to the knee after sustaining an injury or undergoing surgical repair. They play a critical role during post injury therapy as an adjunct to muscular rehabilitation. The American Academy of Family Physicians states that these braces decrease pain, increase knee proprioception, limit knee hyperextension and reduce abnormal motions at the tibia. As a result, individuals exhibit improved athletic performance and more confidence during activities. Individuals who have unstable knees that require surgical repair or more complicated multidirectional injuries should not use these braces. Disadvantages of functional knee braces include increased energy expenditure, decreased agility, false sense of security and possible risk of injury to others during contact.
Patellofemoral Knee Braces
Caused by displacement of the patella, anterior knee pain is a common ailment that affects people of all ages. Patellofemoral knee braces are used to resist displacement of the patella, which has been shown to ameliorate anterior knee pain. They have also been proven to be effective at treating patellar tendonitis and chondromalacia, which is irritation of the cartilage under the patella. These braces primarily work by improving the patella's ability to glide over the underlying bone and dissipating forces. Many people report decreased pain, improved performance and increased security while wearing patellofemoral knee braces. Individuals who suffer from disorders unrelated to the patellarfemoral joint or who have unstable knees that require surgical repair should not use these braces. Disadvantages of these braces include skin irritation, lack of significant pain relief and decreased effectiveness compared to traditional therapies, such as strengthening and stretching.
