Knee Bracing
At PhysioMax Wellness, we our physiotherapists have been trained to assess the patient and determine what type of knee brace would benefit them most. Our physiotherapists can take specific measurements and deal with all major bracing companies that provide both custom made braces and off the shelf braces. If we feel you only require a knee sleeve, which can be helpful for the casual exerciser, then we’ll recommend one that provides compression around the knee joint and that will give you some stability. Other types of bracing include preventative, functional, rehabilitative, and unloader; descriptions of these are found below.
We provide preventative braces which are helpful for all types of sports injuries. Benefits include:
- Protection of the MCL
- Reduction of knee stiffness
- Support for the ACL, PCL, and LCL
These braces are constructed of bars, hinges, and adhesive straps and protect the knee from damage that can occur during all contact sports.
We also fit for functional braces which are needed for sports injuries, rehabilitation, after surgery, and following ACL surgery. They provide support while the knee injury is healing. These types of knee braces are designed to reduce knee instability after an injury and are usually recommended for people who participate in jumping, twisting, pivoting, or cutting activities.
Additionally, we offer rehabilitative braces which are suitable for sports injuries and for after surgery. These types of braces limit movement of the knee while it is healing after an injury or surgery. These braces protect injured ligaments and control knee movement during rehabilitation for an injured ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL, or meniscus. They are often used for 2-8 weeks while using crutches and allow space for swelling during the healing stages. They typically consist of foam liners that surround the calf, thigh, and knee, along with full-length rigid bars on both sides with hinges at the knee that are adjustable. A total of six to eight straps hold the brace in place. Rehabilitative braces are usually adjustable in size.
Finally, we fit for unloader braces which are great for knee osteoarthritis, knee pain, rheumatoid arthritis, stability. These types of braces are usually prescribed for people who have medial (inner part of the knee) compartment knee osteoarthritis. The way these braces unload stress from the affected joint is by placing pressure on the thigh bone. This forces the knee to bend away from the painful area. These braces are custom-designed and made of molded plastic, steel, and foam. They prevent movement from side to side and can be quite helpful for people who are waiting to have knee replacement surgery
If you have a knee issue and require support, please email us at nopain@physiomaxwellness.ca or call us at 905-315-9955. Don’t underestimate the power of a good knee brace. It can make a world of difference in your daily function and how you feel!