What Are the Functions of Elastic Knee Braces?

Knee injuries are a common problem that can not only inhibit athletic endeavors but affect activities of daily life. Of the many knee braces available, an elastic brace is one of the most versatile and commonly used braces on the market.

Compression

• Many injuries lead to swelling. Compression offered from an elastic knee brace will minimize or help reduce post-injury swelling.

Improved Proprioception

• Placing an elastic knee brace directly on the skin helps stimulate nerves in the knee. This in turn helps improve proprioception, or balance, which is essential to prevent or rehabilitate an injury.

Support

• An elastic knee brace provides structural support to the knee, which is especially important after an injury such as a ligament sprain.

Comfort

• Elastic knee braces are designed to allow movement at the knee. Other types of braces, or taping techniques, tend to limit movement and mobility.

Breathability

• Bigger, more cumbersome knee braces lead to heating of a joint, which may be detrimental following injury, while elastic braces provide natural breathability.