Musculoskeletal injuries, especially knee injuries, are the most common reason for a visit to your primary care doctor, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. Knee braces are often used in the treatment and prevention of knee injuries and pain. One type of knee brace is a functional brace. Functional braces can be used during participation in all forms of exercises, including strength training.
Functional Knee Braces
Functional knee braces are commonly used to reduce knee instability following an anterior cruciate ligament injury. They decrease the occurrence of repeat athletic injuries. Functional knee braces were first marketed to help athletes with knee instability rapidly change directions on the playing field, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. These braces can be custom made or purchased as presized models. They use a hinge design with plastic and foam padding and strap on around the thigh and calf.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Functional knee braces can be used in strength training to help limit stress loads on the knee, which is especially important in squatting exercises. Functional braces help to keep the knee properly aligned while lifting, lunging and squatting. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports individuals who use functional knee braces indicate improvement in athletic performance, increased knee stability, improved confidence and a decrease in pain. Scott A. Paluska, MD, of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center indicates that other research points in the direction of regional muscle fatigue and lactic acid build up around the knee. The use of a functional knee brace depends largely on patient and physician preference.
Strength Training Benefits
Regular strength training can boost your stamina and reduce your risk of muscle and joint injuries. MayoClinic.com indicates strength training can be beneficial in managing chronic conditions, such as chronic knee pain and osteoarthritis. Strength training is often used in physical therapy for knee conditions, including traumatic injury and arthritis. Strength training can include the use of body weight exercises, weight machines, free weights and resistance bands. Participation in strength training can help increase range of motion, flexibility and overall strength and function in your knee. In physical therapy, strength training may be completed with or without the use of a knee brace. This is a decision made by your physical therapist and doctor. Your pain level is also a deciding factor in this decision.
Considerations
Functional knee braces are often used by individuals who have already sustained a knee injury and those who have decided against surgery to repair cartilage or ligament damage to the knee. If you already have a knee injury, using a functional knee brace and participating in strength training should be decided on by your doctor. According to Marian Betancourt and Jo Hinnafin, authors of "Say Goodbye to Knee Pain," there is no definitive scientific evidence that indicates functional knee braces can help to stabilize the knee during physical activity. Some users have even reported feeling too confined. If this is the case, talk to your doctor about alternative knee bracing for strength training.
References
- American Academy of Family Physicans; Knee Braces; Scott A. Paluska, MD; 2000
- "Essentials of Personal Fitness Training"; National Academy of Sports Medicine; 2008
- "Say Goodbye to Knee Pain"; Marian Betancourt and Jo Hannafin; 2007
- MayoClinic.com; Strength Training; June 30, 2010
