Having the proper knee support when completing high-impact or other strenuous exercise can be vital to preventing injury to your knee joint. This is especially true if you have a history of knee ailments or have suffered a knee injury in the past. A proper brace will adequately support your ligaments surrounding you knee capsule and prevent unnecessary lateral or anterior/posterior movement within the joint. Many manufacturers offer various knee braces on the market for this preventative purpose.
Knee Anatomy
Your knee is surrounded by many different ligaments that are vital to naturally supporting your knee joint and assisting you with completing everyday activities such as walking, running, climbing stairs or bending your knee to sit. These ligaments include your medial collateral ligament (MCL), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) and your posterior cruciate ligament (PCL). Your knee cap is also supported by its own small ligament, referred to as the patellar cruciate ligament.
Knee Braces
The two main types of knee braces available on the market include those comprised of a neoprene sleeve and those made up of a sleeve, straps, stabilizing bars and other support padding. Neoprene sleeve braces are the simpler design in comparison and are easily slid onto the knee joint while providing minimal supporting and maximum flexibility. On the contrary, knee braces comprised of supportive straps, stabilization side bars on either side of your knee and extra padding are meant to provide the utmost support while limiting your flexibility.
Uses
If your exercise routine includes movements and activities that require a great deal of flexibility like running or jogging, your best option may be the neoprene sleeve brace. These braces will continue to provide minor support for your joint and surrounding ligaments while also allowing your knee to remain fluid. If your exercise routine includes powerlifting or other activities that require little to no knee movement, the sturdier strap brace option is likely to offer you higher support while sacrificing flexibility within your knee.
Considerations
Depending on the type of exercise you typically include in your workout, your doctor or a licensed physical therapist may recommend different brace options accordingly. Never begin a new exercise program without first seeking clearance from your physician, especially if you are recovering from a recent knee injury or surgical procedure.
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