A knee support is one tool in managing the discomfort of knee osteoarthritis. A brace might help reduce pain by shifting your weight off the most damaged portion of your knee. Running and squatting is the reason for pain behind the knee especially in the young generation.
There’s no doubt knee braces are important when nursing an injury or for injury prevention, but choosing the right one can be a daunting task. Knowing more about how to pick the best knee brace for your individualized needs by using a knee support guide can make the process more enjoyable.
Knee support for Knee pain and osteoarthritis
Most people are likely to experience joint pain at some point in their lives. Playing sports or engaging in other strenuous activities can contribute to acute pain and inflammation from overuse of the joint. While serious injuries are relatively uncommon, chronic joint pain may progress into a more severe hindrance over time.
A common cause of joint pain, such as knee pain or hip pain, is osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a degenerative disease, also described as “wear and tear,” which leads to loss of cartilage. This can cause pain, swelling, and problems moving the joint.
Sometimes knee or hip pain caused by bursitis is confused with OA. Osteoarthritis pain comes on gradually and gets worse over time. However, people with OA may also get bursitis.
Symptoms
A knee joint affected by arthritis may be painful and inflamed. Generally, the pain develops gradually over time, although sudden onset is also possible. There are other symptoms, as well:
- The joint may become stiff and swollen, making it difficult to bend and straighten the knee.
- Pain and swelling may be worse in the morning, or after sitting or resting.
- Vigorous activity may cause pain to flare up.
- Pain may cause a feeling of weakness or a buckle in the knee.
- Many people with arthritis note increased joint pain with changes in the weather.
What causes osteoarthritis?
There are several factors that can increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis and impact the rate at which OA progresses over time.
Overuse
The most general cause of joint osteoarthritis is “wear and tear”, categorized by overuse of the joint, leading to increased load, or pressure, which further breaks down vital cartilage. However, this doesn’t mean, that you should avoid any unnecessary movement. Moderate activity is important for OA patients, as it strengthens the muscles, stabilizes the joints, and supports the nutrition of the cartilage.
Bodyweight
Extra weight can add increased pressure on joints and often accelerates the degenerative process of cartilage breakdown, causing osteoarthritis. Maintaining healthy body weight is the primary way to reduce your risk of developing OA.
Age
Age is a contributing factor in the development of osteoarthritis because the natural ability of cartilage to heal decreases as you get older.
Family history
Having a family history of arthritis may increase your likelihood of developing OA.
Knee support for patella tendonitis
Knee tendonitis, common for runners and other athletes, happens when the tendon connecting the shinbone to the kneecap becomes inflamed. Runner’s knee and patellofemoral pain syndrome can occur when your kneecap has veered off the patellar groove.
When to Wear a Knee support
Knee braces are helpful for knee support. In general, braces should be worn if you’re having knee pain or you wish to prevent injuries during high contact sports where there is a higher likelihood of knee injury. Knee braces can also be used for rehabilitative purposes, for example, following an ACL injury. The brace will provide slow, limited movement allowing the patient to gradually regain their range of motion. Knee braces also come in handy for arthritis sufferers as they can aid in reducing pain and inflammation. Your doctor can help you decide if it’s necessary.
Types of Knee Support
There are several types of knee braces available to choose from, such as sleeves, wraparound braces, hinged braces, and straps.
1)Knee Sleeves
They come in different sizes, and you can slip them right over your knee. They provide knee compression, which helps control swelling and pain. Knee Sleeves often work well for mild knee pain, and they help minimize arthritis. Sleeves are comfortable and can fit under clothing.
2)Wraparound or Dual-Wrap Braces
It works well for athletes experiencing mild to moderate knee pain, providing more support than sleeves. These braces are easy to put on and take off, and can be used while training – they don’t have the bulk and heaviness of hinged braces.
3)Hinged Knee Brace
They are often used post-surgery, for patients and athletes who need a higher level of protection and support. This type of brace keeps your knee in the proper alignment when it bends, to help heal and avoid further injuries. Your doctor may recommend a hinged knee brace after surgery, but another type of brace when you’ve reached a certain point in the healing process. Hinged braces are either rigid or soft, with soft ones providing less support than rigid braces.
4)Knee Strap
It is a great solution if you suffer from Knee Pain due to Runner’s knee or jumper’s knee (Patellar Tendonitis), Osgood-Schlatter Disease, or Patella Tracking. It can fit under clothes and is easy to put on and take off. Wearing this type of strap helps prevent patella injuries and minimizes knee pain by putting compression on your Patellar Tendon.
Which Knee support to Choose?
The right knee brace for you depends on the level of support needed and what your doctor recommends. This decision is based on whether or not you’re recovering from surgery, the type of injury you have, and how much movement your knee should be getting.
