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Knee Braces for Injuries

When suffering from a knee injury, it is important to know what type of knee braces you can use for your type of condition. There are three specific types of knee braces that you should look into, prophylactic, functional, and patellofemoral.

  1. Prophylactic Knee Braces

    • Prophylactic knee braces were intended for use to prevent injuries to the knee, especially during rotational stress. They are most commonly used by athletes who participate in high-risk activities, such as American Football, in an effort to decrease the chance of injury. However, according to Scott A. Paluska and Douglas B. McKeag from the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, some evidence has questioned the effectiveness of such prevention methods, especially considering the high price for the item.

    Prophylactic Knee Brace Benefits and Limitations

    • Prophylactic knee braces have had mixed reviews when it comes to the effectiveness of prevention of injury. The effectiveness can increase or decrease depending on the activities you perform and the length of time you perform them. Some athletes have been concerned about the lack of agility and speed when wearing prophylactic knee braces, while others agree that it gives them the much needed support during stressful activities.

      It is important to note that you must be properly fitted for your knee brace, or there is a chance that you may worsen a current injury, or easily cause a new one, according to Paluska and McKeag.

    Functional Knee Braces

    • If you have a torn ligament, you may want to consider a functional knee brace. Although this knee brace does not perform as well for you as a functional knee ligament, it will act similarly. Functional knee braces can be used for joint stability, especially for users who are performing activities where you have to change direction suddenly and rapidly.

    Functional Knee Brace Benefits and Limitations

    • Functional knee braces offer additional support for knees that have torn or injured ligaments. Although this support is not consistent with a non-injured ligament, it can be safer for your knee than not having the knee brace on at all.

      It is also important to note that increasing muscle flexibility and strength around the knee will help protect the knee more so that a functional knee brace, according to Paluska and McKeag.

    Patellofemoral Braces

    • Patellofemoral braces have many have straps or pads that help keep the patella, or knee cap, in place. If you overuse your knee, either by doing activity too soon after injury or too much of a strenuous activity, you may feel patellofemoral pain.

    Patellofemoral Braces Benefits and Limitations

    • Patellofemoral braces have been shown to help eliminate the improper movement of the knee cap, and help reduce overall patellofemoral pain. It is recommended to utilize a patellofemoral brace in conjunction with an exercise plan to help strengthen the stabilizing muscles around the knee.

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