Knee braces are commonly used for the prevention and treatment of knee injuries. However, due to the vast differences between the braces that are available, it is challenging to select the brace that is best suited for your needs. Braces are made out of several different materials including metal, foam, Velcro, plastic and elastic material. To accommodate all consumers, there is a wide range of designs and sizes.
There are four different types of knee braces: 1) prophylactic 2) functional 3) patellofemoral, and 4) unloader/offloader. Prophylactic braces are used to protect the knee from injuries that may occur in high contact sports such as football; they are specifically used to prevent the knee from being bent outward away from the midline of the body which would cause damage to the ligament on the inside of the knee, the medial collateral ligament.
Functional knee braces are used to provide support to a knee in which the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) or collateral ligaments have been injured. They are commonly used after surgical reconstruction of the aforementioned ligaments.
Patellofemoral braces are used for consumers with anterior knee pain; anterior knee pain may affect athletes and non-athletes. These braces aim to improve patella, otherwise known as the knee cap, tracking and alignment.
Unloader/ Offloader braces are used for patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. They aims to reduce the amount of load on whichever side of the knee joint has the most contact.
What to Look for
It will be particularly challenging to shop for a knee brace without having a specific diagnosis as to which type of brace is needed to treat your particular knee condition. In order to improve your results with brace use, it is recommended that you see an orthopaedic surgeon to determine which brace is most suitable for you. By completing a history and physical exam and obtaining the proper imaging of the knee (i.e. plain X-Ray), a doctor will be able to guide you to the appropriate brace. When speaking to your doctor, be sure to develop a clear understanding of your condition and how the brace will be used to improve your prognosis.
Common Pitfalls
Oftentimes, consumers will buy a brace that is not adequate to prevent or treat their knee condition. If you wear an improper brace, you may cause more harm to the knee than without its use. It is imperative that you obtain the brace that is most suitable for you.
