No athlete wants to suffer a blow that prevents him from continuing in practice but unfortunately, knee injuries are usually the most common in all types of sports. Therefore, knowing and buying the best knee support in a preventive way or for rehabilitation is fundamental.
A few months ago I had knee surgery and although I thought I could not get on the bike again, these braces have been my allies in healing, recovery of mobility and strength.
What is the best knee support?
Depending on the level of the trauma and pain you may need flexible elastic support or a complete network structure.
As I have gone through all the states of an injury in this comparison I will leave you, my favourite models, to sustain, alleviate and improve any long-term damage.
The trick for the knee support to work is to choose a correct fit, that is to say, an ideal size and pay attention to manufacturing details as if it is unisex or if it goes for the left or right leg.
The best thing is that this world has evolved so much that there are not only medical and physical specifications but aesthetics. From colours to unique and fun designs, which will give a cheerful touch to any injury.
1. Knee Support Mcdavid
Maximum stability
It covers all the compression needs to keep the knee stable in any practice and even with pain. It has an open design to release tension in ligament problems and to maintain active physical activity. But you must be careful with the pinching of the pins.
2. Knee Ligament Support Bauerfeind
For both legs
It is a padded knee pad with viscoelastic Omega pad. It is perfect to maintain mobility and give natural support that unloads the kneecap of your excessive work and pain. In addition, the brand has developed a good lateral grip that does not compromise flexibility or sweat.
3. Donjoy knee support with Reaction Web
Support for rehabilitation
It is a double structure that has a sleeve and an articulated model “ACL”. It is perfect to maintain pressure outside the kneecap. I recommend it for intense pains in the ligaments, joint diseases, or chondromalacia patella.
4. Mueller Elastic Knee Support
Support in the right places
It is cheap and safe knee support with a wrapped design. Bring open velcro closure on the back to prevent sweating or discomfort. Stabilizes the knee well and has extra metal support. But you must be careful with the sizes because it runs small.
5. Knee stabilizer knee brace Cho-Pat MoserMed
Stabilizes and straightens
This adjustable strap provides upper and lower knee support. It is easily adjustable and is well hidden under clothing. My dad has arthritis and uses it when the pain is strong but it also works perfectly for athletes.
6. Knee sleeve Hikerstrong Pro Combat Nike
Silicone grip
This adjustable sports knee support is made of the best material to avoid irritation during practice and prevent injuries. Hold the meniscus area with a special fabric that is even resistant to abrasion. Its elongated sleeve design also releases calf and thigh pressure.
When to use knee support?
For arthritis
In situations of chronic illness such as permanent meniscus damage, tendonitis, arthritis, arthrosis or other diseases that affect movement, it is advisable to use knee pads to relieve pain.
Postoperative
Having a brace that fixes everything in the right place helps healing and rehabilitation after a knee operation.
Prophylactic
It is when it is used preventively as knee protection that is weakened or that has already suffered a severe injury.
For athletes
In impact exercises such as jumps in volleyball, ski landings or the impact of the trot it is important to have a support mechanism that supports and reduces the constant pressure on the ligaments. That’s why many athletes, athletes, weightlifting, hiking, fitness, basketball use them in heavy training and competitions.
Types of knee support
Sleeves
They are comfortable, they wrap up beyond the kneecap and can be hidden under clothing. They are well recommended to minimize swelling and minor pain.
Double wrap
They give support in the upper and lower zone by adjustable braces. They are easy to put on and take off and are the most common in the market.
Articulated
Through a flexible metal hinge, this device maintains the correct position of our knee to step and jump. They are ideal for rehabilitation after medical interventions. They give high-quality protection and support.
Straps
It relieves and minimizes pain caused by certain movements that apply too much pressure to the kneecap, such as those made while running or jumping. They are ideal to buy if you want protection during a long run or in irregular terrain. Since they maintain the freedom of movement to 100%.
Open or closed label
These models are orthopaedic and give hard support throughout the area. The open styles, with a hole in the middle of the knee, relieve the pressure of the kneecap. While closed models distribute the same compression around and over the joint, being a greater stabilizer.
What to look for in a good knee brace?
Support
There are three levels of protection. Level 1 is completely elastic and gives soft endurance. Level 2 is an economical way to have compression but with a good range of motion and specialized in cases of ligament instability. And level 3 gives maximum support that can be heavy and limit movements but relieves painful or damaging positions.
Size
Too tight a fit can affect blood circulation. So if the strap cannot be released anymore it is better to go for a larger size.
Comfort
It has to do with the use that is going to be given. Orthopaedic models can be quite uncomfortable but if they are prescribed by a doctor they will be necessary. In addition, you must take into account the circulation of air and sliding, complements that will give more or less pleasure.
