With fast-paced skating and constant changes in directions, knee injuries are not uncommon in hockey players. Knee braces are often used in hockey to immobilize an injured joint, to help a player return to the game more quickly following injury, or to provide extra stability to a hockey player's knee. The types of braces used largely depend on the injury and the preference of players and medical professionals.
Prophylactic Knee Braces
Prophylactic knee braces are used in high impact sports -- including hockey. They are designed to protect the knee ligaments and to to help reduce stiffness in knees. This type of brace uses bars, hinges and adhesive straps in order to help prevent knee injuries, especially injuries to the medial collateral ligament.
Functional Knee Braces
Functional knee braces are used to treat injuries and are part of rehabilitation programs following knee surgery. Functional braces help to promote healing of ligament damage in your knee. Functional braces come in several makes. They may be made of a stretchy neoprene material or use metal hinges. Your physician or physical therapist will help to determine the type of functional knee brace that is best for you based on the severity of your injury. This types of brace can help to reduce knee instability, and is recommended for individuals who complete a lot of pivoting, twisting and cutting activities. Functional knee braces can help to reduce risk of injury to other parts of the knee and can be used to help to reduce strain on a knee following surgery.
Rehabilitative Knee Braces
This type of knee brace is used after a knee injury, knee surgery and to help control the movement of an injured knee. Rehabilitative knees braces help to promote healing and are often used with crutches immediately following an injury or surgical procedure. They help to control the range of motion for hockey players while allowing room for swelling. This type of brace consists of foam padding and hinged bars that are adjustable.
Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves are used in reducing knee pain and instability as well as in reducing strain on your knee. They are commonly worn as added support. They are normally made of materials including Polartec, neoprene and drytex. They are inexpensive and provide support through the use of compression around the knee. You will generally find average or amateur athletes -- including hockey players -- using this type of knee brace.
Unloader Knee Braces
Unloader knee braces are commonly used in players with chronic knee conditions. They are design to reduce strain and provide pain relief in individuals who may be suffering from arthritis or who are waiting for a knee replacement. They unload the stress on the knee to your thighbone. These braces are normally made of molded plastic, steel and foam.
