This article covers everything you need to know about hinged knee braces, from how they work to when you should use one; you'll also learn about their different types.
How to Choose the Right Hinged Knee Brace
There are a few things to consider when choosing the right hinged knee brace for your needs. First, you will need to determine what type of injury or condition you are trying to address with the brace. There are braces designed for specific injuries such as ACL tears, while others can be used for more general joint support and pain relief. Second, you will need to decide on the level of support you need from the brace. Some braces provide more support than others, so it is important to choose one that will give you the level of protection and stability you require. Finally, you should also factor in your budget when selecting a knee brace. Hinged knee braces can vary widely in price, so it is important to find one that fits your financial needs.
The Benefits of Wearing a Hinged Knee Brace
Wearing a hinged knee brace can offer many benefits. For one, it can help to stabilize the knee joint and prevent further injury. It can also help to reduce pain and inflammation in the affected area. Additionally, wearing a hinged knee brace can make it easier to move around and participate in activities, as it takes some of the strain off of the injured knee. Finally, wearing a hinged knee brace can provide peace of mind, knowing that you are taking steps to protect your injured knee and promote healing.
The Different Types of Hinged Knee Braces
There are different types of hinged knee braces available on the market, each with its own unique benefits. Here is a breakdown of the most common types of hinged knee braces to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Patellofemoral Braces: These braces are designed to provide support around the kneecap (patella) and are often used to treat patellofemoral pain syndrome (PFPS). They can help to reduce pain and improve tracking of the patella by providing compression and stabilisation around the joint.
Unloader Braces: Unloader braces are often used to treat osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee. They work by taking pressure off of the affected area of the knee joint, which helps to relieve pain and improve mobility. Unloader braces can be worn on either leg and come in a variety of sizes and shapes to fit different body types.
Bicruciate Ligament (ACL) Braces: ACL braces are designed to provide support for knees that have had ACL reconstruction surgery or that have suffered an ACL injury. They help to prevent further injury by providing stability around the joint and can also be used during physical activity to protect against re-injury.