Knee pain can occur at any time. Whether caused by traumatic injury, arthritis, or the wear and tear of everyday life, knee pain can be a short-lived annoyance or an ongoing, debilitating problem. However, before recommending knee replacement surgery, many orthopedic specialists suggest trying nonsurgical treatments to alleviate your pain. That could include physical therapy, over-the-counter pain relievers and knee braces.
“In the right situation, knee braces are excellent tools to manage knee pain and help an injured knee heal,” says Paul Schaefer, a certified physician assistant who works closely with Dr. Edward Blocker at Beaufort Memorial Orthopaedic Specialists. “You just have to get the right brace and wear it the right way.”
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Bracing for the Options
There are multiple types of knee braces. The kind you need depends on what’s going on with your knee. Options include:
- Functional braces, which support, stabilize and protect an injured knee from further harm
- Prophylactic braces, commonly used in contact sports to help avoid or minimize knee injuries
- Rehabilitative braces, which help stabilize the knee, allowing you to regain range of motion and heal after surgery or injury
You can also try a knee sleeve, which is technically not a brace but compresses the knee joint, providing support and reducing pain and swelling.
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Proper Use of Knee Braces
If you think a knee brace may help you, talk with your provider first. Improper use of a brace can put your knee at additional risk. When considering a brace, ask your provider these questions:
- Do I need one? Knee braces may seem like quick fixes for all knee problems, but they are not helpful in all situations. Make sure you’ll benefit from a knee brace before buying one.
- How do I wear it? No matter what type of brace you have, wearing the brace properly is vital (check out the infographic below for tips). Although certain braces can be worn over the pants, pants can cause a brace to fit improperly or slide down your leg. You may need to wear the brace under your clothing.
- What style brace should I use? To get the most benefit from your brace, make sure you have the right type.
- When should I wear my knee brace? Some braces are worn all day long, as you go about your daily activities. Others are used only when participating in sports or other specific activities.
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Braces in Their Places
While helpful, knee braces play a minimal role in preventing or recovering from knee injury, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians. The greatest protection comes from increasing the strength and flexibility of muscles surrounding the knee.
“A brace is one tool that reduces pain and protects your vulnerable knee joint, but it shouldn’t be the only solution you choose if you have knee pain,” Schaefer says. “The right exercises and an overall healthy lifestyle go a long way toward helping you manage pain for years to come.”
If your knee is giving you trouble, request an appointment with an orthopedic specialist at Beaufort Memorial.
