Knee Braces For Running Are Always In Demand

In any sport involving running, the knees are the joints that take more stress than any other. This is because, at every step, about four times the runner’s body weight passes through the knees. It is not surprising therefore that knee braces for running are always in demand, either to prevent injuries to the knees, or to deal with their effects.

Types Of Brace

There are at least three basic kinds of brace for the knees.

• Prophylactic. Braces of this type are worn by runners and other athletes with healthy knees, to support the knees and try to prevent injury. This type of brace became very popular in the 1970s, though they became less popular after several studies showed limited evidence that they were effective.
• Functional. These are designed for people who already have knee ligament injuries, and are designed to compensate for a torn ligament, or to improve stability for unstable knees.
• Rehabilitative. These are intended for shorter-term use, by people who are recovering from injuries or surgery, to protect against excessive extending or bending.

Some also add a fourth category, the patellofemoral brace, which is designed to help with management of pain and injury to the front part of the knees, and to prevent displacement of the patella or kneecap.

Types Of Knee Injury

Knee braces for running are more often used for injuries that have already happened, than for preventative reasons. These injuries can fall into a number of categories.

• By far the majority are injuries from overuse – that is, they develop over time as a result of repetitive stress on the knee joints, and on the soft tissues that surround them. Examples are patella pain syndrome, and IT band syndrome. As injuries from overuse do not usually compromise stability of the joint, high level knee support is not needed, and a neoprene sleeve may be enough. However, for IT band syndrome, a strap can be worn above the knee, to support the band over the outer knee.
• Patella mal-tracking is a frequent problem for runners, its typical symptom being an acute ache at the front of the knee. The patellofemoral type of brace may be suitable, consisting of buttresses and straps to stabilize the kneecap. Many users report considerable agony relief from this type of brace.
• Cartilage and ligament tears mostly happen as a result of falling and hurting the joint. The type of knee braces for running that are used for these injuries will be the functional type, for runners who have suffered an acute injury, particularly to the ACL (anterior cruciate ligament), and are keen to return to the sport. The brace can be lightweight and can take the form of nonrestrictive stabilized knee support. Alternatively it can be a hinge-post-strap design, which is a set of straps round the calf and thigh, with a hinge at the knee, but this is too restrictive for some runners.

How To Use A Brace

Knee braces for running come in many different styles, and the exact details of use vary for each type. If in doubt you should seek medical advice. However, there are some basic precautions you should follow for any type of brace, to ensure you get the maximum relief and protection.

• Make sure you obtain exactly the correct size. If the brace is even a tiny fraction too small or too large, not only will it not be effective, but it will be extremely uncomfortable.
• If the brace has a hinge, ensure the hinge is located exactly at the bend of the knee.
• It is essential to try on the brace, and wear it around casually for a while, before you attempt to run in it.
• Ensure you fasten the straps correctly and tightly, and check the straps are in the correct places on the leg.

Popular Brands

When deciding among knee braces for running, you can choose a custom made brace, so that you can ensure it fits your exact specifications. However, this is an expensive option, as a custom made brace can cost well over $1,000 and even up to $2,000. Instead, there are some actors worth considering in the off-the-shelf category

• The LP X-Tremus lightweight brace is recommended for runners returning after injury, when a heavy hinged brace could prove too restrictive. It features bilateral spiral stays which support against shifting stress and help to prevent further injuries, and also provides a donut shaped pressure pad to improve the stability of the kneecap.
• If you need a hinged type, the Mueller Hg80 features unique triaxial hinges specially designed to provide maximum protection, along with knee movement as close to normal as possible. It is made of non neoprene fabric that is moisture wicking and breathable, and also has several features to provide maximum stability, including upper and rear support strapping and inner gripping strips.
• For those with ligament instability problems, the DonJoy eXtreme Action Armor brace is one of the knee braces for running most highly recommended by pro athletes from all areas of sport. Its outstanding feature is its unique four-part leverage dynamic system, and this combines with its antimigration pad, keeping the hinges exactly in the right place, to give perfect control of instability. Furthermore, its moldable frame gives a customized fit at an off-the-shelf price.

Although knee braces for running are of great benefit in helping you to stay in, or return to, your chosen sport, you must not allow them to do all the work. Before starting a run, it is essential to do proper stretching and warm up exercises, to avoid further strain on your knees. In addition, you should consult health practitioners and physical therapists about flexibility and strengthening exercises you can do on a regular basis, to ensure you get the greatest possible benefit from your brace.