Knee braces are important tools for preventing knee injuries, providing support during physical activity, and aiding in the healing process. However, it’s essential to know how to put on a knee brace correctly to maximize its benefits. In this article, Fivalifitness will provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to put on a knee brace properly.
How to Wear Knee Sleeve
Knee sleeves are compressive knee supports that provide support, warmth, and protection to the knee joint. They are primarily used for prevention of injury and during low-impact activities like running or weightlifting.
Knee sleeves are generally more comfortable to wear as they are made from soft, flexible materials that allow for full range of motion. They are more versatile and can be used for a wider range of activities. Additionally, they are less bulky and can be worn discreetly under clothing.
To wear a knee sleeve, follow these steps:
- Prepare your knee by cleaning and drying the skin.
- Slide the knee sleeve onto your leg with the open end at the top.
- Position the knee sleeve properly over your knee joint.
- Adjust the fit of the knee sleeve, making sure it’s snug but not too tight.
How to Wear Hinged Knee Brace
A hinged knee brace is a type of knee brace that includes metal or polymer hinges on each side of the knee joint. The hinges allow for a more stable support and control of the knee joint, limiting side-to-side movement while providing flexibility in bending and straightening the knee.
Hinged knee braces are typically used to treat moderate to severe knee injuries, such as ligament tears or knee instability, and can be worn during physical activity or as part of a recovery program. They provide a higher level of support compared to other types of knee braces, making them ideal for people who require additional stability in their knee joint.
To wear a hinged knee brace, follow these steps:
- Slide the brace over your foot and up your leg, positioning the hinges on each side of your knee joint.
- Make sure the hinges are aligned with the sides of your knee, and that the brace fits snugly but comfortably.
- Scure the bottom strap of the knee brace, ensuring that it is snug but not so tight as to impede circulation.
- Secure the top strap around the thigh, followed by the strap located just below the knee.
- Fasten any remaining straps in order from bottom to top.
How to Wear Unloader Knee Brace
An unloader knee brace is a type of knee brace that is designed to help reduce pain and improve function in people who suffer from knee osteoarthritis. Offloading knee brace works by creating a three-point pressure system around the knee joint, which helps shift weight and reduce pressure on the affected area of the joint. The brace is typically made of lightweight materials and includes adjustable straps or hinges that can be customized for a comfortable fit.
To wear an unloader knee brace, follow these steps:
- Sit down with your leg straight.
- Position the brace on your leg so that the hinges or straps are centered over your knee joint.
- Fasten the straps or closures at the bottom of the brace around your thigh, ensuring a snug but comfortable fit.
- Adjust the tension on the straps to create a three-point pressure system around your knee joint, with the most pressure on the affected area of the joint.
- Secure the remaining straps or closures in order from top to bottom, making sure each strap is tightened enough to maintain proper alignment of the brace.
- Check that the brace fits well and does not impede your range of motion.
How to Measure for a Knee Brace
Measuring our knee is important when buying a knee brace because it ensures that we choose the right size and fit for our individual needs. Wearing a poorly fitting knee brace can potentially cause discomfort, lack of support, or even worsen the condition we are trying to treat.
Remember to measure both knees, as they may differ in size. To measure for a knee brace, you should:
- Determine which knee you will be measuring and make sure you have a flexible tape measure.
- Stand up straight with your leg slightly bent and your foot flat on the ground.
- Measure the circumference of your thigh, 6 inches ( or 5 inches) above the center of your kneecap.
- Measure the circumference of your calf, 6 inches ( or 5 inches) below the center of your kneecap.
- Measure the distance from the center of your kneecap to the floor.
- Compare your measurements to the size chart provided by Fivalifitness of the knee brace you are interested in purchasing.
- Choose the appropriate size based on your measurements and the recommendations from Fivalifitness.
Reference
How to Wear a Knee Brace for the Best Protection by Technology in Motion.
Dos and Don’ts: Knee Braces, Slings, and Boots by Ortho Virginia
Disclaimer
The information provided in articles written by Fivali is intended for educational and reference purposes only. The content on this website ( fivalifitness.com) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We do not recommend self-diagnosis or self-treatment based on the information provided in our articles. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional if you have any concerns about your health or well-being.
If you are experiencing any symptoms or discomfort, we strongly encourage you to seek medical attention from a qualified healthcare professional. Only a licensed healthcare practitioner can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
