Do I Need a Knee Brace?
You’ve been active your whole life. But now, an injury, chronic pain, or a recent surgery to your knee limits your activity and movement. Is there nothing you can do? At Ames Walker, we believe in the power of proper joint and muscle support. Nothing should stop you from living a full life. A high quality, affordable knee brace or support eases your pain and allows you to enjoy the activities you’ve always loved.
What is a knee brace and what does it do?
Braces are made in various shapes, sizes, and materials to aid in pain relief and healing. They can slide or wrap around your leg, restricting your knee’s motion and stabilizing your joints.
Why would I wear a knee brace?
You might opt for a knee brace or support as a preventative measure or choose to wear one after an injury. Medical professionals recommend knee braces under a variety of circumstances:
- Post-surgery. While your bones, muscles, and tendons recover from a major or minor surgery, a knee braces may assist the healing process and alleviate discomfort.
- Sports injury. From football stars to gymnasts, repetitive, competitive sports players are particularly prone to knee injuries. Recovery may require the use of knee support.
- Physical therapy – Physical therapists often recommend using a knee brace for reinforcement during or after treatment.
- Age. As we get older, our joints weaken and our muscles deteriorate. A knee brace can give you extra strength and increase your range of motion over time.
- Additional support. Perhaps you’re an avid runner or cross-training enthusiast. You might choose an athletic knee brace that offers added support, as well as protection from injury.
Other conditions may require the use of a brace or support system. Ask your doctor or physical therapist about the range of options available.
Common causes of knee problems
If you are suffering from temporary or chronic knee pain, you’re not alone. Thousands of otherwise healthy people like you have knee pain and problems arising from a variety of conditions, including:
- Fractures
- Sprains
- Strains
- Dislocated patella
- Meniscus tear
- ACL tear
- Age
- Ligament injuries
- Arthritis
To assist with healing, your doctor may suggest surgery, painkillers, a cast, crutches, and physical therapy in addition to a well-fitting knee brace to assist with healing and pain relief.
Symptoms of knee problems vary from person to person, but usually they include redness, swelling, stiffness, difficulty moving, weakness instability, a popping or crunching noise, or an inability to straighten the knee.
Which brace should I choose?
Your doctor, surgeon, trainer, or physical therapist can recommend the appropriate knee brace for your specific issue. Ames Walker stocks a large selection of knee braces for a wide range of conditions, ages, and body types. We are your top source for Neoprene, wrapped, hinged, compressive, silicone, and pull-up braces. Please browse our selection and contact us with questions or concerns.
Kaki Zell - Vice President of Sales, Marketing, eCommerce at Legs-4-Life LLC Kaki holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and Management from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University. She’s been working in the medical device industry for over 11 years and currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Greensboro Science Center.
Written December 2016 | Page last updated November 2021
Sources:
Colorado Pain Care. “The Most Common Causes of Knee Pain” https://coloradopaincare.com/the-most-common-causes-of-knee-pain/