Knee braces have a variety of possible benefits, depending on the type and function of brace. According to the American Association of Family Practitioners, most evidence of positive results with brace use is subjective. When used properly, they can provide support and pain relief. Knee braces may help to immobilize your knee while it heals, create support to eliminate further injury, and be used as a method of injury prevention.
Types
Many types of braces are available that serve specific functions and come in a variety of styles. Knee immobilizers and post surgical braces such as immobilizers with hinges are normally used immediately after surgery or injury. Knee sleeves come in a variety of lengths and styles. They are available with and without a hole for your kneecap, with strapping to stabilize the kneecap, and in different materials. Rigid or functional braces are made of metal or other hard materials, with a frame and strapping. Osteoarthritis bracing adds an unloading hinge to a rigid brace or sleeve, to address the affected area of wear. The knee strap, although made by a variety of manufacturers, lacks a great deal of variety due to it's simple nature.
Effects
The effect of each brace varies depending on its type. The immobilizer protects the knee by maintaining a set or limited position, while the sleeve creates heat and compression which can help with pain and swelling. A functional or rigid knee brace uses the leverage and support of the frame and straps to provide protection to the ligaments. The osteoarthritis brace creates pressure on the unaffected side of your knee, opening the joint on the arthritic side. This improves alignment and allows for a decreased wearing of bone on bone. The knee strap is used to apply pressure directly to the patellar tendon to decrease pain and inflammation. It may also be used to provide relief for Osgood-Schlatter disease, an irritation of the tendon at the attachment of the shinbone.
Significance
.According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the benefits include an increase of proprioceptive awareness and a limitation of hyperextension with rigid bracing, as well as improved patellar alignment and decrease lateral tension with patellofemoral braces. Further subjective results, determined by a number of studies covered in the ASFP report, included improved activity levels and a decrease in pain in all brace categories.
Considerations
It is necessary to use the correct type of brace for your problem. Ensuring a proper fit, as well as knowing the correct way to wear your brace are also necessary to allow for optimal brace function.Your physician may direct you to a trained professional if you need guidance in these areas.
Warning
Seek medical advice to determine the proper diagnosis and best brace for your knee pain. Lack of proper treatment for your knee pain can lead to further damage.
