Whether you’re an athlete pushing through the final quarter, a weekend warrior hitting the trails, or simply navigating your daily routine, sore knees or ankles can be a hindrance! Bracing for these joints can offer much needed relief and support. Let’s explore how ankle and knee braces can help you stay active, manage pain, and enhance your performance.
Bracing is more than just protective gear; they are crucial devices for injury prevention and recovery. For athletes, knee and ankle braces provide stability, reduce pain, and prevent further injury. For people with active jobs or busy lifestyles, braces can alleviate discomfort and improve mobility. Braces are typically rigid, compressive or a combination of both. Each serves a unique purpose and offers its own benefit.
Rigid Bracing
Rigid braces are designed to limit movement and provide firm support for the joint. They are typically used after significant injuries such as ligament tears or fractures, or post-surgery. This type of bracing stabilizes a joint, allowing it to heal, while preventing further injury from occurring. Rigid knee braces often feature metal hinges or plastic shells that stabilize the knee, making them ideal for conditions like anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries and severe arthritis. Rigid ankle braces may have stirrups or laces, providing firm support around the ankle joint. They are particularly useful for recovering from sprains or fractures.
Compressive Bracing
Compressive braces are made from flexible materials like neoprene or elastic. They provide support by compressing the soft tissues around the joint, which helps to reduce swelling and enhance the body’s sense of joint position, also known as proprioception.
Compressive knee braces can help with mild arthritis or patellar tendonitis by providing warmth and reducing inflammation. Compressive ankle braces offer support for chronic instability and mild sprains, making them a popular choice for ongoing joint management.
Off the shelf bracing works for many, but for some, a custom option may be necessary. Custom knee and ankle braces are tailored to fit your specific anatomy, offering the highest level of support and comfort.
When should you consider a custom brace?
- You have a unique injury or deformity that off the shelf braces do not accommodate.
- You require precise support due to a complex, severe condition or injury.
- You’ve had surgery and need a brace that matches your rehabilitation needs perfectly.
What are the benefits of bracing?
- Pain Relief through stabilization and reduction of load on the joint.
- Enhanced Performance for athletes who can perform with more confidence knowing their joints are supported.
- Injury Prevention as braces can prevent minor injuries from becoming major issues, allowing for continuous activity.
Common Conditions Treated with Braces:
- Arthritis: Braces can provide relief by stabilizing the joint and reducing inflammation.
- Sprains and Strains: Ankle and knee braces can prevent further injury by providing support and limiting harmful movements.
- Ligamentous Injuries: Rigid braces are often used post-injury to facilitate healing and prevent recurrence.
- Tendonitis: Compressive braces can reduce strain on tendons, allowing for healing and pain relief.
Bracing can be combined with custom foot orthotics to maximize efficacy. Braces focus on stabilizing and supporting knee and ankle joints and can be worn during times when barefoot or without shoes. Custom foot orthotics work by improving alignment and support in the feet, benefiting the knees and ankles.
Combining bracing and orthotics provides a comprehensive approach to managing lower limb pain and dysfunction. For example, knee pain caused by flat feet is effectively treated with orthotics to improve alignment in the feet, and a knee brace to directly support the joint.
If you’re suffering with a sore knee or ankle, bracing could be a terrific option for you! They offer a practical, non-invasive solution to keep you moving comfortably and confidently. At BioPed Footcare, our Canadian Certified Pedorthists can help you by selecting and fitting the right brace for your lower body concern. Visit us today to gear up and get back in the game with the support you deserve!
