Injuries & Causes, Treatment & Prevention Options, Recommended Braces & Supports, and FAQs
Knee pain can occur in various parts of the knee, including the inner knee, outer knee, front, and back, affecting individuals of all ages and activity levels. It ranges from mild to severe and can be particularly noticeable when bending, exercising, or even during simple daily activities. Causes of knee pain are diverse, involving injuries to ligaments and cartilage, arthritis, and overuse. Understanding the specific location and triggers of your knee pain, such as whether it occurs mainly in the upper or lower knee, is crucial for diagnosing the underlying issue and choosing the right treatment plan.
Knee braces offer essential support for individuals experiencing knee pain or recovering from injuries. By providing stability to the knee joint, they help to alleviate pain, reduce the risk of further injury, and facilitate a quicker recovery process.
Braces work by compressing the knee area, which can improve blood circulation, decrease swelling, and limit movements that may exacerbate the condition.
Selecting the appropriate brace—whether it's a hinged brace for post-surgery support, a compression sleeve for mild pain and swelling, or a patellar stabilizing brace for kneecap issues—is crucial in addressing specific knee problems effectively. We advise you consult with a healthcare professional or one of our staff to identify the best option for your specific knee condition, ensuring optimal care and protection.
Please consult with a healthcare professional to accurately identify the cause of your knee pain and diagnose your condition. After receiving a diagnosis, our trained staff can help you in choosing the best knee brace or leg support to suit your needs.
Ask for adviceKnee pain can stem from a range of injuries such as ACL and PCL tears, MCL and LCL sprains, and conditions like Baker's Cyst and Chondromalacia, which affects the cartilage under the kneecap. Dislocations of the kneecap, mal-tracking of the knee caps, meniscus injuries, Osgood-Schlatter disease, osteoarthritis in the knee, patella strains or sprains, Patellofemoral Syndrome, and complications following knee surgery are also common sources of knee discomfort. Each condition varies in symptoms and severity, requiring tailored approaches for management and recovery.
Knee pain is considered serious if it involves severe pain, significant swelling, an inability to fully extend or flex the knee, a noticeable deformity, or an inability to bear weight on the leg. Immediate medical attention is recommended in these cases.
Prophylactic braces prevent injuries during high-risk sports, functional braces stabilize the knee post-injury, rehabilitative braces limit harmful knee movement during recovery, and unloader braces relieve pain in people with knee arthritis by shifting weight off the most damaged portion of the knee.
The choice of knee brace should be based on the specific knee condition, the level of support needed, and the activity you plan to engage in. Consulting with a healthcare professional can ensure you select the most appropriate brace for your needs.
Knee braces can provide support and reduce the risk of certain injuries, especially in sports, however they are not a guaranteed way to prevent all knee injuries. They should be used as part of a comprehensive injury prevention strategy that includes strength training, flexibility exercises, and proper technique.
A knee brace should fit snugly without causing circulation problems. You should be able to slide two fingers under the brace's straps. If it's too loose, it won't provide adequate support; too tight, and it can hinder blood flow.
The duration depends on the injury and the brace's purpose. For acute injuries, wear it as directed by your healthcare provider. For chronic conditions or prevention, wear it during activities that strain the knee. Always follow the advice of a healthcare professional.
Generally, it's not recommended to wear a knee brace while sleeping unless specifically advised by a healthcare professional, as prolonged wear without movement can lead to circulation issues or skin irritation.
Follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions, typically involving hand washing with mild soap and air drying. Avoid machine washing and drying, as it can damage the brace. Regularly inspect for wear and tear, and adjust straps as needed to ensure a good fit.
Replace your knee brace if it shows signs of wear and tear, such as stretched-out straps, cracks in the support structure, or if the brace no longer fits properly due to changes in your body size or the shape of the knee.
You can call or text any of our 6 locations, send us an email at info@kinetickonnection.com, or use the form below.