Whether you are a cyclist, a dancer or even a construction worker, knee pads are important in protecting you against knee injuries, that could result in permanent damage. According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health, carpet layers constitute 0.06 percent of the total workforce in the United States but 6.2 percent of workers' claims are filed by them for traumatic knee injury because of the time spent working on their knees. While cyclists or dancers do not use their knees as much, they are at an equal risk because of the pressure that is put on their knees.
Uses
The basic use of a knee pad is to protect the cartilage and patella from knee injury. Knee pads also serve to protect you against minor bruises during sports or cycling.
Types
There are two types of knee pads, one that fits the knee like a glove covering the knee all around, while the other covers the knee but not the back of the knee. The padding may also vary depending on the knee pad you choose. If you are in a profession where you are on your knees for most parts of the day, then choose a thicker pad since the wear and tear will be more than required by an average person. At the same time, a cyclist may require a pad that only covers the knee since risk of injury to the back of the knee is minimal. TommyCo Knee Pads notes that knee pads are found in materials like fabric, foam, gel and rubber. Gel knee pads are recommended by doctors and physiotherapists since these are the most comfortable and provide a good cushion.
Injuries
Most of the body weight centers on the knee when you are kneeling, increasing the chances of knee injury. Some of the most common knee injuries include meniscus tears, bursitis, tears to the tendons, unnatural folding of the knee ligaments, and acute pain in the patella.
Prevention
The best way to prevent knee injury is to use knee pads. You can choose knee pads depending on your professional requirements. For example: Gel knee pads are best when riding a bike since they disburse pressure during a fall while wheeled knee pads are ideal for carpet laying and also help in preventing back strain.
Considerations
When buying knee pads, think of the wear and tear they will be subjected to. If you ride your bike daily, invest in a good pair of gel knee pads with a thicker padding since there will be considerable wear and tear, especially if you ride on dirt paths.
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