A Leg Strap For Knee Exercises

Following a knee injury, it is important to ensure that strength and stability are restored through physical therapy exercises. During the course of physical therapy, your muscles will be worked by using knee straps as a form of resistance. Knee straps come in two forms -- a thin strap that is attached to a chair or exercise device or a strap that is placed directly on your knee and used as a brace to improve range of motion. Straps may also be weighted for additional benefits and faster healing time.

Patellofemoral Brace

Bracing your knee through a series of straps or sleeves is important in the quest to restore range of motion and strength without risking further injury. A patellofemoral brace is a brace that used to decrease knee pain while allowing for natural flexibility during exercise. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, patellofemoral braces work by keeping the patellofemoral joint stable, allowing for ease of movement. Although studies provide conflicting evidence as to their success, patellofemoral braces are still used by physical therapy patients to help decrease pain and increase knee flexibility.

Exercises

Another form of knee strap commonly used to knee strengthening exercise is used primarily under the guidance and instruction of a licensed physical therapist. The strap is connected at one end to a stable chair or table and then secured around the patient's ankle or knee. Flexation exercises are done in this fashion to provide resistance training after knee injury or surgery as part of the healing process. Some exercises also call for a longer knee strap to be secured to your ankle or knee, while you firmly grasp the other end, pulling at the strap and slowly lifting your knee as far as you can without causing pain or discomfort. These exercises strengthen the muscles in your knee, helping you to become more mobile as your knee progressively becomes able to bear your fully weight, according to "Therapeutic Exercise for Musculoskeletal Injuries" by Peggy A. Houglum.

Support vs. Strength

Knee straps for exercise are not designed with a one-size-fits-all attitude. All straps are made differently and for different purposes. For example, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, arthritis sufferers use leg straps and other prosthetic devices to reduce pain and improve function while knee injury use is primarily for rehabilitation. Understanding your situation and proper use of knee straps during exercise goes a long way in a successful recovery. It is always important to follow your doctor and physical therapist's instruction closely to prevent further injury and enhance your efforts.

Considerations

Use of knee straps for exercise is not for everyone recovering from injury or surgery. Patients dealing with major complications are not necessarily physically able to undergo therapy using knee straps until a doctor has given the OK. Always consult your physician and physical therapist before participating in this form of exercise and only under their supervision. Failure to secure the straps properly can result in injury.