12 best orthopedic knee braces - ranking 2021

Victoria Mamaeva

Chief editor of Filzor. Specialist in the field of Pharmacy

Healthy knee joints are important for any person, because how a person moves depends on them. If there are problems in the musculoskeletal system, even the task of taking a couple of steps can become overwhelming due to pain.

Therefore, to treat such diseases, not only a complex of physiotherapy and medications is used, but also auxiliary means, such as knee pads or bandages. Knee pads

They perform their function perfectly, namely they protect the joint from harmful external influences and accidental sprains.

What are knee pads for?

The knee pad performs all the functions of an elastic bandage and even more. Basically, such a clamp is used to protect the injured limb, reduce the level of force pressure and as a precautionary measure.

Knee pad. Photo: yandex.ru

An orthopedic knee brace is also used:

• For tight fixation of the knee. A correctly selected bandage in terms of volume does not put pressure on the veins and blood vessels and will not fall off, while helping to reduce the force load on the limb and minimizing rehabilitation time.
• A special warming knee pad with natural dog hair creates a good warming and therapeutic effect, helping to normalize blood circulation in the injured leg.
• An elastic knee brace is used as a means to prevent serious injury.

If a person is completely healthy, a knee brace can perform a preventive function and be used during heavy physical activity, for example, a knee brace for sports or for work.

There is also a separate type of medical knee braces for arthrosis of the knee joint.

Knee pad. Photo: yandex.ru

This product has the following effect:

• Relieves pain.
• Relieves swelling of the knee joint.
• Prevents muscle strain.
• Increases motor activity of the injured limb.

Criterias of choice

The choice of knee pad depends on the material

Many people are interested in which knee brace is best. It is impossible to answer this question accurately, since the product must be selected taking into account the type and stage of the disease. When choosing, you should pay attention to the size, material and type of knee pad.

Knee pad type

The type of knee brace is selected taking into account the nature of the pain syndrome and its location.

• Closed – used if the localization of pain is not established. It covers not only the articular area, but also nearby tissues.
• Open – used for mild pain.
• Hinged – universal type of knee pad. Used for pain of any intensity and location.
• Warming – used for severe pain and discomfort. Due to the warming effect, it has an even effect on the source of pain.

Material

Before buying a knee brace, you need to pay special attention to the fabric. This is one of the most important criteria when choosing. Any fabric has its disadvantages and advantages; it must be selected taking into account the type and stage of knee joint pathology. Knee pads are made from the following types of material:

• Wool has a healing effect. Allows you to evenly warm the joint, while reliably fixing its position.
• Neoprene - provides reliable fixation of the knee joint, but does not allow air to pass through, which contributes to increased sweating.
• Cotton - excellent breathability and moisture permeability, but is not durable in use and constantly needs to be washed. Provides weak fixation.
• Polyester - securely secures the joint in the desired position, allows moisture and air to pass through, but does not have a warming effect. It also has a relatively high cost.

Size

The size of the kneecap varies from person to person, so you should measure and select a knee brace based on your knee circumference before purchasing. The size should be such that the knee pad provides reliable fixation of the joint, but does not overtighten the leg. Otherwise, it may cause poor circulation.

The knee pad sizes are as follows:

• S - 29-35 cm.
• M – 36-40 cm.
• L – 41-45 cm.
• XL – 46-50 cm.

The measurement is carried out as follows - from the middle of the kneecap, count 15 cm up and down the leg, the limb should be in a straightened state.

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Types of knee pads

Modern manufacturers offer a large number of different types and models of knee pads to choose from. They may differ in the material from which they were made, their intended purpose and appearance.

Doctors identify the main group of products:

1. Open bandages have additional rigid ribs, whose task is to relieve a person of pain that can occur during prolonged physical activity.
2. Closed knee braces are used to relieve joint pain that occurs in the early stages of arthritis.
3. Tutor. The product is used to speed up the patient's recovery after surgery on a limb.
4. Orthoses are knee braces that fix the tendon, thereby eliminating pain in the kneecap after it is damaged.
5. Articulated bandages are prescribed exclusively by a doctor for progressive arthrosis or arthritis.

In addition to the main groups, knee pads can be:

• Woolen. They are used to normalize blood circulation, and this knee pad also has a thermal insulation and warming effect. But natural wool, unlike synthetic materials, wears out quickly, which must be taken into account when purchasing. This knee pad is suitable for work.
• Compression. A similar knee brace is needed to fix a knee joint of medium rigidity. Its main purpose is considered to be the fight against swelling and inflammation. Also, a compression bandage is often used after implant placement to make it easier to get used to it.
• Magnetoelastic. The work of this type of knee brace is to create a small magnetic field around the limb, which relieves inflammation and pain by improving blood circulation.
• Kinesio tapes are the most versatile type of bandage. Similar products are presented in the form of a tape that needs to be wrapped around the joint, but more often the tape is used for preventive purposes, to reduce physical activity and protect against stretch marks. Kinesio tapes are the most popular knee pads for dancing.
• Articulated. This bandage is equipped on both sides with metal hinge mechanisms. Such a mechanism takes on part of the weight during movement, which significantly reduces the load on the sore joint. It is worn after a major surgical operation, when quick rehabilitation is needed, or after an injury.
• Tourmaline knee pads made using a natural mineral that has healing properties. Such bandages are used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system.

Knee pad. Photo: amazon.com

Rating TOP 10 best orthopedic knee pads

The rating included the following models:

• Fosta F 1259.
• Ottobock.
• Orlett Energy Line DKN-103 NRG.
• Trives T-8508.
• Orto NKN 209.
• Orlett Energy Line DKN-203 NRG.
• Pharmacels Patella Stabilizer Knee Brace PRO.
• Orto Professional BCK 270.
• Trives T-8511.
• Crate F-521.

Let's move on to a detailed analysis.

Fosta F 1259

A neoprene knee pad with a ring insert helps maintain discreet support for the knee joint. Creates a warm feeling, protection and light massage. Wearing is prescribed for preventive and therapeutic purposes.

An orthopedic bandage will protect you from common dislocations, arthrosis, and relieve you from bursitis, hematomas, synovitis, meniscus tears, and fractures. It is most advisable to put the retainer on the body; in case of skin defects, you can wear a cotton stocking under it.

How much and how to wear the bandage is decided by the doctor who is treating you. Without his advice, it is allowed to wear for 4 hours during the day with physical. loads The wearing period can be increased with the doctor's permission up to 12 hours a day.

Price: from 450 to 1230 rubles.

knee pads Fosta F 1259

Advantages

• creates a feeling of light massage;
• treats a large number of diseases (relieves common dislocations, arthrosis, bursitis, hematomas, synovitis, meniscus tears, fractures);
• allowed to be worn for preventive purposes.

Flaws

• cannot be ironed.

This orthosis is made of neoprene, which provides a warming effect and micromassage effect. Neoprene does not interfere with ventilation and moisture exchange, due to which I do not feel the slightest discomfort. I definitely recommend it, you will be delighted!

Ottobock

Provides easy fixation of the knee joint. Accelerates the resorption of edema, hematomas, intra-articular effusions due to compression and micromassage effects. Promotes active stabilization of the joint by coordinating the work of its own muscles. Relieves and stabilizes the patella.

Reduces or eliminates pain. SKIN GUARD technology (thread with silver ions) prevents the growth of bacteria on the skin. Elastic-elastic knitwear with a three-dimensional structure is resistant to stretching and retains its shape for a long time, is soft and pleasant to the skin, and does not contain latex.

An oval silicone pad covers the patella, providing relief and stabilization. Variable compression zones provide excellent fit, correct pressure distribution and micro-massage.

Cost: from 3850 to 4990 rubles.

Ottobock knee pads

Advantages

• silver threads are used in manufacturing, which prevent the spread of bacteria;
• seams do not chafe;
• the largest size in the V-MAX series.

Flaws

• not detected.

My brother and I bought this orthosis for our mother. She has age-related problems with her knees. She liked the orthoses immediately. Comfortable and easy to put on, does not overtighten your knees. With long-term use (12 hours or more) there is no discomfort. Previously, she used an elastic bandage for additional fixation of painful joints. He says that they strongly tightened the fixation site, but blocked the blood flow. Because of this, at times it was necessary to loosen the binding, which led to a deterioration in the fixation of the joints. With these orthoses these problems disappeared. We are very pleased with the purchase.

Orlett Energy Line DKN-103 NRG

The presented knee device stabilizes and relieves stress on the knee joint and is designed to relieve pain and restore knee mobility. Effectively used after injuries and operations in the knee area, for arthritis or arthrosis with pain and swelling syndromes.

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Price category: from 3070 to 4950 rubles.

Orlett Energy Line DKN-103 NRG

Advantages

• completely repeats the anatomical lines of the joint;
• has two hard ribs;
• equipped with gel spikes that produce a light massage.

Flaws

• not found.

Very comfortable, good quality material, soft, does not rub, does not cause allergies, excellent for joints. I bought it for my son because he suffered some injuries at birth. The bandage does its job perfectly. It makes it much easier for my child to move and recover. I recommend.

Trives T-8508

Knee pad with metal hinges, detachable, made of neoprene - an elastic material with warming and micro-massage effects. Equipped with polycentric hinges that provide lateral stabilization and unloading of the knee joint and eliminate hyperextension in the joint.

The detachable design of the bandage allows for maximum fixation of the knee joint with limited joint mobility, joint swelling and increased body weight. The bandage has ventilation holes in the projection of the popliteal fossa for maximum wearing comfort.

Thanks to the tapes with Velcro fasteners, it is convenient to attach the bandage, taking into account the individual characteristics of the body. The bandage provides lateral stabilization and unloading of the knee joint.

Price: from 1210 to 1755 rubles.

Trives T-8508

Advantages

• there are heat-saving and massage effects;
• has the function of lateral stabilization and unloading of the knee joint;
• reliable fixation of the product on the leg thanks to two tapes with fasteners.

Flaws

• not detected.

Holds (fixes) the knee well. Along with a broken ankle, an injury to the knee ligaments – it hurts with minimal stress. The doctor advised me to use a similar bandage - it helps. You can remove the hinges to wash the product. The size matches. Excellent orthosis for your money!

Orto NKN 209

The knee pad is made of neoprene, equipped with a raised silicone restrictive ring around the hole for the kneecap. Moderate fixation of the knee joint, stabilization of the kneecap, micromassage and thermal effects.

The knee pad fits tightly to the knee joint, unloads its capsule, moderately fixes the knee joint, the presence of a silicone ring prevents excessive displacement and stabilizes the position of the patella.

Thanks to the material used, it has micromassage and increased warming effects, as a result of which peripheral blood circulation in the underlying tissues is activated, tension in the tendons, joint capsule and muscles is reduced, and their flexibility and elasticity are increased.

Cost: from 1120 to 1980 rubles.

Orto NKN 209

Advantages

• a silicone ring fixes the patella;
• has a warming function;
• can be used as a prophylactic after injury.

Flaws

• not found.

Excellent quality of the hinges themselves. Adjustable flexion/extension amplitude. The legs don't feel sore under the bindings. Very strong Velcro. The materials are excellent. Let's see how it works. It's okay for now. I can recommend it.

Orlett Energy Line DKN-203 NRG

The ORLETT DKN-203 NRG dynamic knee orthosis with medium fixation is designed to relieve pain and restore knee mobility. Effectively used during secondary rehabilitation in the knee area, for arthritis or arthrosis with pain and swelling syndromes.

The orthosis is made of flat three-dimensional knitwear. Knitting allows for maximum anatomical fit and necessary fixation. The presented orthosis is created using the unique PROPRIO PRESSION knitting technology, which provides increased proprioception (muscle sense), a feeling of joint protection and provides exceptional comfort during any activity.

Price: from 3200 to 4300 rubles.

Orlett Energy Line DKN-203 NRG

Advantages

• provides maximum anatomical fit;
• relieves pressure from the kneecap;
• does not create a “tourniquet” effect (preserves normal blood circulation).

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Disadvantages

• not detected.

The edging is made of very soft fabric and does not rub the skin during wear. Flat springs made of galvanized steel, located in pairs on the sides of the joint. They protect the knee by limiting lateral mobility, facilitating extension without interfering with normal movement. I'm happy with my choice, I definitely recommend it!

Pharmacels Patella Stabilizer Knee Brace PRO

Lightweight and effective neoprene knee brace (sports knee brace) with open patella. The ring-shaped buttress stabilizes the kneecap in the correct position and, due to the elastic element sewn inside, exerts the necessary pressure on the patellar tendon (kneecap) and the quadriceps tendon.

Two pairs of galvanized steel flat springs prevent lateral movement within the knee joint and support weakened collateral ligaments. This knee brace model is unique in its combination of simplicity and effectiveness. The bandage is very comfortable and easy to use, as it is tailored in accordance with the anatomy of the lower extremities.

Price category: from 2050 to 3270 rubles.

Pharmacels Patella Stabilizer Knee Brace PRO

Advantages

• has a one-piece structure and contour design;
• the knee pad is equipped with lateral support from two pairs of flat springs;
• stabilizes the joint and reduces stress on the lateral ligaments.

Flaws

• not found.

Purchased more than 2 years ago, on the recommendation of a traumatologist for instability in the knee. There was an injury, or rather a rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament. Before that, there were problems on the other knee with a meniscus and a torn anterior cruciate ligament. Compared to other similar devices, this performed well.

Orto Professional BCK 270

Elastic bandage for the knee joint with spring inserts and a hole above the kneecap, as well as two pairs of flexible stiffening ribs for stabilization and additional unloading of the capsular-ligamentous apparatus.

The model is made of unique raw materials containing nanoparticles of bamboo charcoal. The properties of the material allow the product to be used during excessive sweating, intense physical activity, and sports.

Cost: from 2800 to 5000 rubles.

Orto Professional BCK 270

Advantages

• the innovative Flextra system was used during creation;
• the product is made of material containing nanoparticles of bamboo charcoal;
• Excellent for the prevention of injuries during sports and physical activity, including increased elasticity of the ligaments and hypermobility of the patella.

Flaws

• not detected.

Very nice material. Good hold. I tried many of these analogues with fixing tapes up to 3000-4000 thousand, this one turned out to be the best in terms of feel and material. I bought it for 4900 rubles.

Trives T-8511

The knee joint bandage Trives T 8511 has a detachable knee pad design, which is effective for limited mobility of the joint and swelling of the joint. Made of neoprene, the inner layer is adjacent to the skin, Coolmax is a modern breathable material with pronounced moisture-wicking properties. Maintains optimal temperature balance of the skin, is equipped with an additional ring for fixing the patella, and does not cause allergic reactions or skin irritation.

Price: from 870 to 1570 rubles.

Trives T-8511

Advantages

• blocks “wrong movements” in the knee;
• there is additional support for the kneecap;
• the material absorbs moisture.

Flaws

• not found.

I don't recommend wearing it for a long time. No more than 8 hours! I wear it like this: in the morning while I get to work, then I take it off and put on the elastic knee pad, and also during training, since I am rehabilitating after an injury, and in the evening, when I return home. It's worth the money and gets the job done.

Crate F-521

The height of the product is 26 cm. The knee pad is made of neoprene. The detachable design of the knee pad makes it easier to put on and fix on the limb. There is a soft ring for more comfortable fixation of the kneecap. Universal size. Suitable for knee circumference: 35-46 cm. Composition: 90% neoprene, 5% polypropylene, 3% latex, 2% polyester.

Price: from 740 to 1505 rubles.

Crate F-521

Advantages

• universal size, suitable for knee girth from 36 to 45 cm;
• there is a heat-saving and massage effect;
• Easily attaches to the knee joint.

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Disadvantages

• Spin mode is prohibited when washing.

Recently it turned out that my wife started having some problems with her knee, the surgeon advised me to buy a knee brace, especially since she goes to volleyball training, she really needed it. We ended up purchasing the “Crate” F-521 knee brace and were pleased with the purchase.

How to choose a knee pad

Before purchasing an orthopedic knee brace, even for preventive purposes, you need to consult a doctor who will help you choose the best option. It is also important to take into account the fact that there are several sizes of knee pads and when purchasing a product that does not fit, there is a risk of harming the joint. If you choose too large, you will not be able to fix it properly, and if you buy too small, you run the risk of pinching the blood vessels, which can trigger the emergence of new pathologies.

Only a well-chosen product for individual needs and size can benefit your health. It is recommended to measure the circumference of the knee in the middle, then 10-15 cm above and below it, and then compare the result with the size chart on the bandage packaging. There is no need to be afraid to try on a knee brace before purchasing. It should sit comfortably, not squeeze or slide.

How to determine the size of knee pads

• Size S – suitable for people with a limb girth of 30-36 cm.
• Size M – suitable for people with a limb girth of 37-40 cm.
• Size L – suitable for people with a limb girth of 41-45 cm.
• Size XL – suitable for people with a limb girth of 46-49 cm.

Knee pad. Photo: baldinelli.ua

You also need to take into account several more criteria:

• Indications and contraindications that your doctor will help you decide on.
• The material from which the product is made.
• The quality of the fasteners, because they wear out the fastest.

Voting for the best knee pads for joints with Aliexpress

Which knee pads for joints would you choose or recommend on Aliexpress?

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Contraindications

• Magnetic knee pads are strictly not recommended to be worn during pregnancy, in the presence of pacemakers, or in cases of damage to the skin and deep tissues. In such cases, it is better to give preference to another type of orthopedic device.
• People with increased bleeding and impaired thermal sensitivity should refrain from wearing a knee brace.
• Do not wear a knee brace if there is serious damage to the integrity of bone tissue and ligaments.
• If a person is allergic to wool or other synthetic materials.

How long to wear a knee brace

How long you can wear a knee brace depends on how serious the condition is. So, in a situation where destructive changes in cartilage have just begun, wearing a bandage is not recommended for more than 3 hours a day. You need to wear a knee brace when there is physical activity on the limb. If you have moderate or severe arthritis or arthrosis of the knee joint, you can walk with the product for no more than 14 hours.

Knee pad. Photo: medi.se

If the bandage serves as a preventive measure or insurance during physical activity, it is best to wear the product only during training exercises or during work.

Recommendations for use

The treatment period is prescribed by the doctor

After purchasing, patients are interested in how to wear a knee brace. In order for the use of the product to bring only positive results, the following recommendations must be followed:

• Wearing time should not exceed 2-3 hours a day. In some cases, the duration can be increased, but only as prescribed by a doctor. This is usually appropriate for advanced stages of disease.
• The treatment period is determined by a specialist on an individual basis.
• The knee pad should only be washed by hand; the temperature should not exceed 40 degrees, otherwise the material will shrink. Water and detergents must not contain chlorine. The product must be dried away from heating devices.
• When worn, the knee pad should not cause discomfort; it should not rub or overtighten the leg. This only happens if the knee pad size is selected incorrectly.
• It is forbidden to over-tighten the knee brace on the leg, as this will impair blood circulation. This can lead to aggravation of the disease.
• A knee brace is an important step in the treatment of arthrosis, but only with an integrated approach. Stopping medications is strictly prohibited.

When used correctly, wearing a knee brace will bring the most positive results. It will help restore leg mobility and relieve pain. The knee brace used in the main treatment allows you to speed up the treatment process and achieve a stage of stable remission.

Features of care

Caring for knee pads may vary depending on the type. For example, it is recommended to store a magnetic bandage away from electrical equipment and metal structures so as not to damage the main operating component, namely the magnet.

Products made from synthetic wool materials without mechanical locking can be stored anywhere. They can also be washed if necessary. Knee pads that contain mechanical fasteners cannot be washed. If the clamp has metal parts, then it must be stored in a dry place to avoid rust. Such a bandage must be carried carefully so as not to damage the mechanism.

Knee pad models

There is no monopolist as such in the knee pads market. There are many companies that produce quality products, namely:

1. Medi.
2. Oppo.
3. Fosta.
4. Orlett.

Each of the above manufacturers can be trusted and purchased their products. But there are also manufacturers on the domestic market who have proven themselves well and can compete with imported goods.

These are companies such as:

1. Nadezhda, LLC.
2. TONUS, JSC.
3. LEONARDA-SERVICE, LLC.
4. LPP Pharm.

Another advantage of domestic knee pads is their price, unlike foreign products, the cost of which includes transportation, customs clearance, etc.