Knee Braces: Types, Uses, and Benefits
Knee braces come in various types, shapes, and sizes, designed to provide support and reduce pressure on the knee joint. If you’re experiencing new or worsening knee pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider. They can diagnose the issue and recommend the most suitable brace, if needed.
What Is a Knee Support Brace?
A knee support brace is a medical device designed to stabilize and support the knee joint. Healthcare providers often prescribe knee braces after an injury or surgery to protect the knee and aid recovery. These devices are sometimes referred to as orthoses.
What Do Knee Support Braces Treat?
Knee braces are commonly used to address various injuries and conditions, including:
- Knee Injuries
- Knee sprains.
- Ligament injuries.
- Patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee).
- Patellar (kneecap) instability.
- Patellar tendinitis or other tendon problems.
- Patellar dislocations.
- Health Conditions
- Peripheral neuropathy.
- Knee arthritis.
- Conditions causing joint weakness or looseness, such as joint hypermobility syndrome or Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.
In addition, knee support braces may be recommended to prevent sports injuries or manage chronic knee pain. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if a knee brace is right for your specific needs.
What Does a Knee Support Brace Do?
A knee support brace supports your knee, holding it in place and keeping it aligned. Typically made of stiff plastic or metal with cushions and straps, knee braces help prevent excessive or sudden movement, reducing stress on the joint. The level of resistance and support varies based on the type of brace.
Types of knee braces:
- Unloader knee braces: These redistribute weight and relieve pressure from your knee, transferring it to stronger parts of your leg. Commonly recommended for knee arthritis.
- Patellofemoral knee braces: These protect and support the kneecap (patella) and the front of the knee.
- Knee immobilizer braces: Used during post-surgery recovery, they are stiff and limit movement.
- Functional knee braces: Allow controlled knee movement, preventing excessive motion. Often used after a knee injury.
- Prophylactic braces: Worn by athletes, especially in contact sports, to prevent injuries. Consult a healthcare provider before purchasing.
Your healthcare provider will guide you on the type of brace needed and whether it requires custom fitting. Some braces are available OTC, while others need a prescription.
Knee sleeves
Made of tight elastic material, knee sleeves provide light compression and support. Although not braces, they’re the most commonly worn knee support.
How Do I Put on a Knee Brace?
Most knee braces wrap around your knee with elastic straps. The fit should be snug and secure but not overly tight or uncomfortable. It shouldn’t cause pain or restrict circulation.
While it may feel unusual at first or seem like the brace is adjusting your knee alignment, it should never worsen pain. Consult your healthcare provider or physical therapist before using a new brace. They can guide you on how to put it on, wear it, and move comfortably with it.
Risks / Benefits
Benefits of wearing a knee brace:
Knee braces provide quick and effective support for the knee joint, alleviating pain and stiffness. They aid in safe healing and help prevent future injuries. Braces are also easy to put on and adjust, making them especially useful when dealing with swelling after an injury.
Risks of wearing a knee brace:
While risks are minimal, potential complications include:
- Skin irritation.
- Pressure sores.
- Nerve compression.
Using a knee brace may not always improve symptoms or prevent injuries. Consult your provider to set realistic expectations and explore additional treatment options for symptom management.
Recovery and Outlook
How long do I need to wear a knee brace?
The duration of wearing a knee brace depends on the reason for use. If you're recovering from an injury or surgery, your healthcare provider will set a timeline based on your progress.
Some individuals wear a knee brace during physical activity or sports. Your provider may recommend wearing it at all times or will advise when it’s safe to train, work out, or play without it.
When to Call the Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:
- Severe pain.
- Increasing swelling.
- Discoloration or bruising.
- Tingling or numbness.
- Inability to move your knee or leg.
Additional Common Questions
Do knee braces work?
Knee braces definitely help protect and support your knee after surgery or while you’re recovering from an injury. Braces can help you feel safer and more confident. Many people also find that wearing a knee brace helps relieve pain and other symptoms (especially if they have knee arthritis).
It’s difficult to definitively say if knee braces can prevent injuries, as there haven’t been studies proving that injuries would occur without them. However, many people who wear prophylactic knee braces report feeling safer and more secure, which gives them the confidence to stay active or compete.
Keep in mind, wearing a knee brace should not replace seeing a healthcare provider. Consult your provider or a physical therapist before purchasing or wearing a knee brace. They can help you select the right type and ensure a proper fit.
