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Contents
What is a Knee Support Brace?
A Knee Support Brace, as I discuss here, is something you strap onto your knee, rather than slip-on. The most common term people use is ‘knee brace.’ There is a lot of confusion surrounding those things you see people wearing on the basketball court, in the gym, while running, and so on.
So, here are three knee braces that you strap onto your knee to give knee support.
Knee Pain Searches for ‘Knee Brace’ as a Solution
In the past ten years, Knee Braces and Knee Support Braces are becoming more and more popular. Google searches have jumped 3X since 2009! This is because the population is aging. As we get older, the likelihood of wear and tear rises, resulting in knee pain.
For active young people, strains, sprains, or other injuries cause people to look for a knee brace or knee support brace. A knee brace can be a big help in relieving arthritis pain, especially in older people, and healing knee injuries
For active young people, strains, sprains, or other injuries cause people to look for a knee brace or knee support brace. A knee brace can be a big help in relieving arthritis pain, especially in older people, and healing knee injuries
Notice that the searches peak during the summer months when people are more active. In winter, not as many people are active, so there are fewer injuries. That is purely an educated guess.
The Difference Between a Knee Brace and a Knee Sleeve
The following 3 Knee Support Braces are very popular. Unlike Knee Sleeves, they use straps to wrap the knee and compress and stabilize the knee by tightening the straps. Read on to see which one is the right brace for you.
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
EXOUS Knee Brace Support Protector
- Patented 4 Strap Attachment: 4 anchor points allow you to adjust the fit and compression to your desired comfort. The knee compression will feel like it is around the whole knee joint with even knee support
- Stablity and Stabilization: The 4 straps combine with MCL & LCL flexible stabilizers creating a 'butress' like effect of giving whole knee stability, The mechanical advantage of this strap system is noticeable when stabilization is needed
- Reduced Bulk behind The Knee: The 2 thinner straps which wrap behind the knee, may give less bulk and a feeling of more range of motion compared to most generic knee braces which rely on a middle strap behind the knee
- Less Adjusting: Compared to 2 and 3 strap knee braces our testing and user feedback has shown the mechanical 4 point attachment strap system may require less need to adjust whilst exercizing in sports such as running, football, basketball hiking and basic walking.
- Feel The Difference Vs Generic Open Patellar Stabilizing Knee Brace Designs - We ask you to watch the video read the feedback and see what real functional knee support should feel like. Check the sizing guide 20" maximum thigh 3" above the knee and 18" maximum calf width. Total satisfaction contact us for any issues regarding your purchase enjoy the product size guide [medium]!
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Unlike closed patella pain-relieving knee braces, the EXOUS Knee Brace Support Protector is an open Patella wrap that helps to protect the knee joint but offers a specific range of motion. The patella is a fancy word for your knee cap. Some knee braces leave the patella exposed, while others cover it.
The Exous Knee Support Brace is less bulky than the two other knee braces featured here. But may not provide the kind of support needed in case of a real injury. It has a long list of positive testimonies.
Most of the open patella knee wraps you see have either 2 or 3 straps to hold it in place. The fact is, these types of wraps tend to slip, which can be annoying. So, having four straps is a definite plus. This product is admittedly more expensive than the cheaper, 2, and 3 strap wraps, but it is worth it, just because it performs better.
Two dedicated patella straps give the patella tendon extra support, so that relieves pain in the front of the knee, and offers jumpers knee pain relief and help to stabilize the knee cap.
Be sure, if you are considering ordering, to measure your knee, since there are specific limits on leg size for this knee brace wrap. The features of this brace are as follows:
- Relieves Patella Tendonitis
- Jumpers Knee Meniscus Tear
- ACL Lateral & Medial Ligament Sprains
- Comfort Design
- True Non-Slip FIT
- Arthritis – Sport – Running
Pros
- This knee compression brace was designed to minimize knee pain and provide as much support as possible.
- It specifically targets those who deal with meniscus or ACL issues, jumper’s knee, and long hours wear and tear.
- The knee compression brace is made of quality materials to ensure durability.
- It moves fluidly rather than stiffly. This allows better range of motion during healing and physical activity.
- It is a lighter weight knee brace, which makes it better for frequent motion.
- Side stabilizers also help protect the knee from twisting and sprains.
Cons
- This is a small issue, but machine washing will harm this product up, so only hand wash
- A few people have questioned how long the product lasts
- Some say that two of the straps are too short so that it is not as stable as they’d like
Verdict: Excellent Value and Reasonable Price
This product is relatively inexpensive compared to some of the more expensive, complex stabilizer wrap knee braces. The Exous Knee Wrap Brace is a quality way to reduce knee pain, help heal meniscus and ACL issues, and get extra support. It is a good knee brace for running.
For more details or to purchase, go here.
Hinged Knee Brace: Shock Doctor Maximum Support
- EVERYDAY RELIEF: Our Shock Doctor knee brace for women and men provides support and helps prevent and relieve ACL/PCL injuries, medial/lateral instability, hyperextension, patella instability, meniscus injuries, ligament sprains, and more.
- ALL-AROUND COMFORT & STABILITY: The heavy-duty bilateral dual hinges on our knee brace for meniscus tear offers support while allowing comfortable and movement with four-way stretch Lycra mesh and a pre-curved anatomical design. Fits both right and left knees.
- HEALING COMPRESSION: Our knee support brace's compression supports soft tissue and joint alignment, promotes therapeutic heat for better blood flow, and aids in the healing of tendons and muscles for enhanced recovery.
- PREMIUM MATERIALS & FUNCTIONALITY: Our knee stabilizer brace for men and women is latex-free with premium stitching and integrated flexible side stabilizers. Stays in place with easy grip tabs for accurate fitting. Airflow vented tech reduces odor and moisture.
- PERFORMANCE-DRIVEN INNOVATION: Shock Doctor is a leader in sports protection and performance globally. Our innovative, performance-driven knee brace patella stabilizer is trusted by both pro and youth athletes for safety and performance.
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Shock Doctor Hinged Maximum Support Compression Knee Brace is a more serious variation of the available braces. A more expensive option, to be sure, but it makes up for the cost in performance. Just a glance at it tells you it really means business. Its bilateral hinges and strong fabric ensure both a comfortable range of motion and reliable support.
This knee support brace is rated as at a Level 3 Performance Rating. “Medium stability and support for moderate to significant ligament sprains, muscle strains, and unstable joints allowing for use as necessary for recovery.
Dual hinge and stays for maximum support and protection.” However, it also has this disclaimer: “This product is not a substitute for medical care. Always seek professional medical advice for the diagnosis and treatment of pain, injury, or irritation.”
Ultra-support for:
- ACL or PCL injuries
- Lateral and medial instability
- Patella issues
- Hyperextension
- Ligament sprains
- Other meniscus injuries
Even though it appears to be stiff or immovable, it rates to be a very comfortable fit. Since you’d typically use it post ins, keeping movement in line is crucial to recovery. But there is much more to note about this product.
Pros
- The curve of this support intentionally matches the body’s anatomical shape so that it can fit perfectly.
- The use of the bilateral hinges helps to increase performance as well as stability. The hinges use tempered aluminum that also assists in stability.
- It works in a way to improve proprioception or bio-neurological stress awareness.
- The X-Fit strap system adds increased stability and pressure.
- The Hypalon sleeves and four-way Lycra mesh backing helps support the back of the knee and thus, the whole design. There is also vented Neoprene material for ultimate breathing.
- Patella support is improved using Lycra as well, which ensures lasting comfort.
- Front face stitching creates a cool look that’s also long-lasting and provides an interesting aesthetic.
- Easy to grab finger tabs for easier grip. The tabs are important for adjustment and removal since compression knee sleeves are supposed to fit snugly.
Cons
- This is a pricier product. This support blends brace technology and compression relief. It is meant for more serious conditions, while still allowing you to participate in sports.
- Sizing has been an issue with a number of customers, with the most common complaint is that it is smaller than they anticipated. Plus, they couldn’t get a refund.
Verdict: Used for More Serious Sprains or Injuries
Since the perfect fit is crucial to a proper healing process of achieving usable support, the Shock Doctor Ultra-Knee Support with Bilateral Braces offers several sizes, which gives it an advantage over a few of the variations we have explored. This knee brace does come off as too strong in some cases, but for many injuries, a high level of support is crucial to really get the job done.
The Shock Doctor was developed with these factors in mind. By promoting proper blood flow and therapeutic warmth, it has easily gained a well-known reputation. For more information, go here.
McDavid 4200 Bio-Logix Knee Brace
- PROTECTION / PREVENTION: This hinged knee brace for men and women is designed as our most advanced hinged knee brace with side stabilizers, featuring bi-lateral aluminum hinges for a fluid feel, natural range of motion, and knee support
- COMFORT: This ACL knee brace strategically combines rigid and soft materials to ensure unique comfortable support, the knee brace for meniscus tear also comes with a compression sleeve for added comfort
- BIO-LOGIX: A philosophy of sports medicine. Bio-Logix is an approach fully focused on the realities of the human form, advancing the sciences of design, materials and process to naturally extend the biomechanics of natural human limits through this knee brace for women and men
- ADJUSTABLE: Our meniscus knee brace's strap system offers exceptional adjustment range and structural support. Use the hinged knee brace for meniscus tear with or without the compression sleeve. Refer to the size chart picture and/or video before purchasing.
- COMPRESSION SLEEVE: Using the included knee compression sleeves under the brace allows for the perfect combo: support, comfort, fit, performance and recovery
Last update on 2024-11-05 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
McDavid is one of the best known, most reputable brands in knee joint support products. As a name brand, its offerings are sometimes more expensive than generic or smaller, less well-known companies.
Nonetheless, it provides a range of knee sleeves, braces, and supports depending on the nature of the knee problems you have. For a convenient chart of 6 models and their uses, you can go here, and scroll down to the bottom of the page.
To save you the trouble of visiting the page, suffice it to say that of those six models, they range in use from grades:
- 1 – Minor Pains and Sprains
- 2 and 3 – Moderate to Major Instabilities
- and 3+, which is for Major Instabilities
The 4200 reviewed here is the 3+ grade. It is a combination brace and sleeve, designed for major sprains of MCL, ACL, PCL and meniscus injuries, prevention of hyperextension, recovery and pain relief.
Unlike more modest knee sleeves, this McDavid product has bilateral aluminum hinges. So, it has both a knee sleeve and a semi-rigid brace component. It uses its BIO-LOGIX philosophy to create this heavy-duty device.
As their product description notes, this is their top of the line product, for Major Instabilities, which combines both compression as well as metal hinge support for weak, unstable knees. If you have ever had your knee buckle under you, you’ll know what they are talking about.
Pros
- The metal hinges give support where, in the case of severe sprain or injury, or operative recovery, when the joint is severely compromised, sleeves or wraps without the hinges may not be enough to support your body weight
- Even though the hinges are metal, since they are well-designed aluminum, they are relatively lightweight
Cons
- Since they’re intended to emphasize stability over flexibility, they don’t perform the way a non-hinged brace does
- Given the more complex design and variety of components, it’s more expensive than the other knee support braces featured in this overview
Verdict: Use for Major Knee Problems
To put it simply, if you’ve got a major knee problem, and are not in a position to run marathons and play in your local sports team, but are just trying to get around, this is probably your best bet. To see the McDavid 4200 Bionic Knee Brace, go here.
Bracoo Knee Support, Adjustable Strapping and Breathable Neoprene Material
This knee support brace by Bracoo is an open patella brace that provides support for arthritis pain, joint pain relief, and injury recovery. The design helps to relieve pressure and reduce stress on the joints of your knee. It has a stabilizer ring as well to help ensure that your knee cap remains in the right position while distributing stress across the ACL, PCL, and MCL ligaments.
The straps make this knee brace fully customizable, so you get a better fit with no slippage. You will also find that this knee brace is at a much more affordable price point when compared to other similar support knee braces in its category.
Pros
- Open patella design to help relieve and reduce stress on the knee joints
- Helps to relieve acute and chronic knee pain
- Fully customizable straps with no slippage and a better fit
- Extra thick neoprene material sleeve offers more protection and helps improve blood circulation
- Can be worn comfortably under clothing
- High-quality and breathable materials
- Can be worn on either the right or left knee
Cons
- Some users reported that you have to continuously tighten the straps as you walk, or the brace begins to fall down
- Some have also reported that the knee brace has dug into the back of their knee with continued use
- May be too constricting during some activities
Verdict: Good for Pain
If you choose this knee brace, there are five different sizes to choose from. It is made from professional grade materials and offers immediate relief from knee pain. It is comfortable to wear and has a non-slip design. However, with continued use, the Velcro may begin to give out, causing the straps to have to be tightened and readjusted throughout the day.
Mueller Sports Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace
This knee support brace by Mueller is the ideal choice if you are active in sports or participate in other physical activities regularly. It is a self-adjusting brace that provides you with the utmost protection and medial-lateral support. The elastic straps crisscross above and below your knee to provide the best support possible.
It is also made with antimicrobial material, which helps to eliminate odors. You will find that with this brace, one size will fit most, and it is suited for both the left or right knee. Mueller braces help support and treat some of the most common injuries and ailments, including post-operative pain, PCL and ACL injuries, and instability of varying degrees.
Pros
- Its side hinges help protect from hyperextension
- Crisscross straps allow for more support and are self-adjustable
- With the two side hinge pockets, you will find proper positioning for your knee size
- One size fits most and is ideal for weak, injured, and arthritic knees that need more support
- Offers the maximum level of support
Cons
- Some complained of less compression than what was needed
- Straps may cut behind the knee and cause discomfort
- May find limited side movement while wearing the knee support
Verdict: Offers Excellent Support
All in all, Mueller is committed to making high-quality products to help those suffering from knee pain. So, if you are heavy into physical activity and you are looking for some additional knee support by wearing a knee brace, then this is the knee brace for you. It offers maximum support and a comfortable fit.
Conclusion
If you are looking for a good knee brace, and do a search, you will come up with 9000+ results! So, I chose, out of 9000 available choices, to review these seven. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. They all emphasize some uses over others. If you read the reviews carefully, you can probably decide which knee brace or sleeve is best for you.
Should you have knee issues, it’s useful to know that there is more than one way to deal with them, often by using more than one method.
Be sure to read other articles on this site, since several other ways to treat your knees are discussed, from simple things like losing weight if you are overweight, to finding ways to support your joints with the right kinds of food, to use of pain relief machines or home exercises, yoga, use of gym equipment. And then there are both natural remedies books dealing with knee pain, as well as experimental, oriental medical treatments.
The purpose of this blog is to alert people to many approaches, which may be overlooked by mainstream sources. Before deciding to cut back on your activities or go deep into debt for treatments, use the free information available here, and if you like, please support this site by going to visit the products suggested here.
Thanks for reading!