Why do you need a knee support and how to choose it correctly?

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It is very important for amateur and professional athletes to choose reliable knee protection. It is this part of the body that is often injured and is difficult to fully recover. If there is a high risk of injury to the joint or cup during training, we advise you to purchase a sports knee support. A specially designed design securely fixes the muscle and provides additional support to the medial and lateral ligaments. At the same time, the sports knee pad does not restrict movement; the elastic one will prevent damage to the knee.

Knee pad – what is it?

A knee brace is a special orthopedic device whose task is to support the knee joint. They provide fixation and some stabilization of the knee and patella, support the collateral ligaments and menisci.

Indications for the use of knee pads are:

• rehabilitation period after operations and injuries;
• prevention of knee injuries during sports;
• for various diseases such as arthrosis, arthritis, synovitis, bursitis, etc.
• with heavy loads on the knee joint in everyday life;
• for “loose” joints, in which patients complain of a feeling of knee instability when walking.

What is a knee support?

A knee support is an elastic bandage that is used to immobilize and fix the joint after an injury, reduces the load on the painful area, and prevents further destruction and the development of complications. Calipers are used in the presence of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. The braces support the knee, are breathable, normalize blood flow, and prevent muscle atrophy and tissue necrosis.

Types of knee pads

Depending on their purpose, knee pads can be preventive, therapeutic or sports. They all have different structures, degrees of fixation and compression, and are made from different materials.

Conventionally, sports knee pads can be divided into 3 groups:

• Soft. These sports knee pads include elastic and knitted models. Their task is to provide weak or medium fixation, gently clasping the knee and the surrounding area. They also provide protection to the kneecap, preventing it from rocking from side to side. Also, such knee pads gently distribute the load. This type is used for minor injuries, mild joint diseases, and also for protection against injuries during sports. Often such knee pads have a warming effect due to improved blood flow or have an additional micro-massage effect.
• Semi-rigid knee braces have additional reinforcements and splints on the sides. This ensures fixation of the joint and does not allow it to dangle from side to side, which in turn protects the lateral ligaments from damage. This type of knee pads is usually equipped with special fasteners (belts, Velcro) that allow you to control the fixation. The most common representatives of this group are those with a hole for the patella, which fix it and limit the movement of the cruciate ligaments. This type of bandages is used in the post-traumatic period.
• Tough. This type of knee brace is used only for therapeutic purposes and must be selected individually for each patient. They provide for almost complete or complete immobilization of the knee joint.

Protective devices

Devices for protecting the knees are called calipers. Protection of the knee joints with the help of these devices can be carried out with a dense frame or a soft elastic band, consist of several parts, adjustable in volume and height, fastened with Velcro or be seamless.

Knee support has many synonyms - bandage, fixator, knee pad, orthosis, splint. All of them mean protection and support for the knees; the differences can only be in the material and design. Sometimes knee pads are named according to their properties and manufacturer - for example, hard knee support lp. Lp in this situation is a derivative of LP Support, the name of an American company. The main activity of LP Support is the production of specialized medical products for fitness and sports activities, running.

Choosing a knee pad depending on the type of sport

• For acrobatics and sports dancing, models of sports knee pads with thick soft pads are suitable.
• For volleyball, preference is most often given to models with gel inserts, which over time take on the shape of the knee and provide soft protection, reducing the risk of injury and softening the blows in the event of a fall. The same knee pads are also popular for skating, roller skating, and skateboarding, and can also be used for preventive purposes in almost all sports and in everyday life.
• Neoprene knee pads are purchased for water sports.
• Hockey requires rigid and durable knee pads that can protect the knee from injury from impacts and falls.
• There are also dance knee pads. They provide soft and reliable support for the knee, while being practically not felt on the leg and do not interfere with performing dance steps.
• For playing handball, football, basketball and other aggressive games, knee pads with reinforced stitched pads are used, which will protect the joint from falls and impacts to the knees.
• There are separate knee pads of different sizes for children. They help protect children's knees during sports, as well as during active leisure.
• There are also universal knee pads that can be used for any sports activities and for wearing in everyday life for preventive purposes. They have a thin and wide insert, which is produced using a special technology and softens shocks well. Due to their small thickness, such knee pads are practically invisible under clothing.

When necessary

A knee support is used in case of diagnosing:

• congenital anomalies and anatomical features of the structure of the joint;
• genetic and hereditary abnormalities in the functioning and construction of the limb;
• arthrosis;
• arthritis;
• dislocation (subluxation);
• rheumatism;
• ligament sprains;
• limb injuries in the knee area, fractures.

Wearing arch supports is recommended if there is pain in a problem area during rehabilitation after surgery; their use is practiced by athletes to unload joints, prevent fractures, partially limit motor ability or completely immobilize a limb to provide it with a state of maximum peace and relaxation.

Those at risk for lower extremity injuries are:

• participants in sports competitions;
• people whose work involves prolonged and heavy loads on their legs;
• elderly and senile patients: gradual wear and tear of the body leads to an increased risk of injury;
• Pregnant women: while carrying a child, the lower limbs experience a lot of physical activity;
• patients suffering from overweight and obesity.

How to determine knee pad size

No knee brace will help you if the size was initially chosen incorrectly. Each company produces its own knee pad sizes, so you need to choose individually each time. The box with the product always contains information with a size scale.

Usually, to determine it, it is enough to measure the circumference of the knee joint in the center of the kneecap in a standing position and compare it with the scale, choosing the appropriate one.

Sometimes additional measurements of the lower leg and thigh are required. In any case, an orthopedic doctor or sales consultants will always be able to help determine the correct size.

Operating principle

The caliper is specially designed to protect against damage during active sports. It securely and gently fixes the joint, additionally supporting overly stressed and tired muscles, while maintaining good mobility and without interfering with blood circulation in the limb. The support helps reduce the load on the knee during sharp accelerations, turns, jumps, which are inherent in many game or other sports (volleyball, basketball, football, handball, pioneer ball, martial arts, etc.).

A knee brace is a good protection for the joint and hamstrings during heavy loads in bodybuilding, powerlifting, and weightlifting. The support reduces the likelihood of muscle strain, meniscus and ligament damage. It helps not only protect against injury, but also increases the effectiveness of training, creating an additional shock-absorbing effect during exercise.

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A sports knee support promotes proper functioning of the joint during intense physical activity. It has an excellent warming effect, causing active blood flow to the joint. Thanks to this principle of influence, muscle performance increases, flexibility and elasticity of ligaments increase, pain and fatigue during excessive physical activity decrease. If you are actively involved in sports, then the support will help keep your knees healthy for many years.

Material of manufacture

The most commonly used are knee pads made from:

• Wool. Dog hair is often used: it has a good warming effect.
• Cotton. Characterized by strength and elasticity.
• Synthetic fabrics (lycra, elastin, polyurethane). They have increased elasticity, have micropores, a breathable layer, and are resistant to deformation and tearing. The inner layer of the dressing is made from them.
• Neoprene. Reliably fixes the knee, but does not affect mobility, retains heat, absorbs moisture, and is used to make the inner surface of a tight bandage.

In order for the use of a caliper to have a positive result, the following are important: the convenience of the device, the absence of compression in the knee area, hypoallergenicity, non-toxicity and safety for health.

Benefit

A sports brace maintains the mobility of the knee joint without restricting freedom of movement during active physical activity. Using a support will help you increase the effectiveness of your workout by avoiding the negative consequences of overexertion. The knee brace brings tangible benefits, as it allows you to:

• reduce pain;
• reduce muscle tension and fatigue;
• remove some of the load from the knee joint;
• reduce swelling;
• protect the knee from injury and damage;
• improve the performance of muscles and ligaments;
• increase knee flexibility.

Wear a knee support during intense training or competitive events. This will allow you to improve your athletic performance while protecting your knee joint from possible damage. On training days with a normal load, it is recommended to train without using a knee brace so that the muscles and joints receive full physical training.

What types of calipers are there?

The sporting goods market offers a wide range of calipers, divided according to their functionality and degree of fixation. Various materials are used to make bandages: elastic fabrics, plastic, metal parts and fasteners, Velcro, adjusters, hinges. Sports knee supports are divided into the following categories: soft, semi-rigid, hard. Let's look at each type of knee braces in more detail.

Soft calipers

This category includes all types of bandages made from dense elastic fabric. The main purpose is to prevent diseases and reduce the load on the knee joint during sports. A soft knee support, reviews confirm this fact, stimulates blood circulation well, reduces pain during inflammatory processes, and reduces swelling.

A completely soft knee brace will help reduce the physical strain of running or doing strength exercises, but will not protect you from injury if you fall. If your sports activities involve a high risk of knee injury, then choose an elastic model with additional sealing on the cup of the joint.

Semi-rigid calipers

This category contains all models that in one way or another limit the functionality of the knee joint. They are designed to help protect and stabilize the knee while preventing unwanted movement while allowing it to perform normal activities.

Such calipers have a more complex design than soft ones. The elastic material of the models is complemented by various fasteners, adjusters, hinges, and side rails, depending on the intended purpose. Semi-rigid products are recommended for wearing during the recovery period after minor or moderate injuries, during exacerbation of joint diseases or chronic knee instability. The most popular model for such cases is the LP 708 knee support, developed by the world leader in sporting goods LP Support.

Rigid calipers

Rigid support supports are designed for recovery after serious injury or surgery. Such models almost completely limit the mobility of the knee joint in order to allow damaged tissue to recover. The design has stiffening ribs, articulated volume of motion regulators and retractable tires. Rigid supports allow you to limit the range of motion of the limb with the possibility of increasing it as you recover.

When choosing a knee brace, you must first decide on its purpose, and then select the type of knee brace. If you want to purchase a model for sports without damaging your knees, then a product from the soft calipers category is suitable. In all other cases, you should consult your doctor before purchasing.

How to choose a knee support size?

When choosing a caliper, it is important to determine the correct size so that the model fits the knee well without interfering with blood circulation in the lower limb. To do this, measure the circumference of your lower thigh with a measuring tape. Keep in mind that the length of the caliper depends on the volume - the larger it is, the longer the bandage. In stores, knee pads are available in four sizes, divided according to the circumference of the lower thigh: S – 33-35 cm, M – 36-38 cm, L – 38-42 cm, XL – 42-46 cm. When choosing the right size, be sure to try it on product.

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Description of sports knee pads

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Sports knee pads for running are used for both preventive and therapeutic purposes. They can be used not only by professional athletes, but also by ordinary joggers.

Knee pads will serve well for:

• maintaining physical fitness,
• weight loss,
• strengthening the body, including the cardiovascular system.

Typically, knee pads come in different shapes, fit differently, and, depending on how you use them, have additional components.

Functions of sports knee pads

Here's what you should use running knee pads for:

• For the prevention of various injuries, for example: meniscus, joint capsule, ligaments.
• To prevent exacerbation of knee diseases in case of sports activities.
• During the rehabilitation period after injuries and sprains.
• For instability of the knee joint.
• When preparing for and participating in competitions or during active recreation.
• With exacerbation of vascular diseases of the legs.

Difference from therapeutic knee braces

When choosing a knee brace for running, it is important not to confuse a sports knee brace with a medical knee brace. The functions of the latter include immobilization of the damaged knee. The therapeutic knee pads have metal spokes or hinges sewn into them,

But the function of sports knee pads, first of all, is to prevent knee injuries and sprains. It should fit the runner, although sometimes it is difficult to choose a knee pad due to the relief muscles on the legs: it is individual, and during training the muscle tenses and the relief changes.

Pharmacels classification

In addition to the materials from which the calipers are made, the degree to which they support or protect the knee joint is important. This allows a person to choose a bandage or orthosis according to their problem. Pharmacels LLC has developed a classification of knee pads according to their intended purpose. According to her developments, calipers can be divided into:

1. Basic support facilities.
2. Means of medium protection and support.
3. Products with the maximum degree of protection and support.

Basic support

Knee pads of the first group can be used for minor bruises, sprains, to protect the knees from sports injuries, and from hypothermia. Basic protective equipment is made of fabrics or synthetic materials and does not have additional rigid elements. They are usually solid, without fasteners. In front they may have a rounded hole for the patella.

Medium protection

Calipers with an average degree of protection can be used for inflammatory and degenerative lesions of the knee joints. Their task is to limit movements, but not completely eliminate them. These knee pads are recommended for use in cases of severe pain in an inflamed or injured joint. Limiting movement can significantly reduce pain.

A knee support of medium protection is used after complete immobilization of the joint. In a situation where contractures of the damaged area begin, and the full range of movements is still contraindicated, supports of this group are the option of choice.

These knee pads are made of dense materials, often they have a combined device. Using additional elements, they can be adjusted according to the volume of the knee and hip. Often they can be reinforced with medical steel knitting needles to provide the necessary support for the joint.

Maximum protection

Knee pads with the maximum degree of protection have the most complex design. They are more often called orthoses.

Such calipers are almost always combined. They are based on a semi-rigid frame; the required degree of protection is provided by steel spokes. A buttress is required to stabilize the kneecap. Adequate fixation is possible with straps or fasteners.

Orthoses with maximum protection are needed after serious injuries and operations, with severe sprains, and in dangerous sports.

Best models

In this section, we will look at the best models of knee pads for running.

Variteks 884

According to professionals, this neoprene orthosis is one of the best models. It will perfectly fix your muscle on your leg, which will allow you to engage in active recreation, including running.

Also, in addition to jogging, you can swim, ski, and surf. This model is not afraid of moisture.

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Variteks 885

The Variteks 885 knee pad is similar to the previous model. The difference is that it has the function of supporting the kneecap. It will be effective if the runner has previously trained for a long time, but has not used knee pads.

Indeed, if there is no fixation under conditions of intense loads, the kneecap can become mobile, which can lead to destruction of the joint. To avoid this problem, you should use a supportive orthosis.

PSB 83

The PSB 83 knee brace has a much more complex design. This product has additional inserts and is suitable for professional athletes, as well as those who have a history of knee injury.

This knee brace perfectly fixes the kneecap without restricting movement. You can adjust the product to fit your feet using Velcro. In addition, the knee pad has silicone pads. Thanks to them, the orthosis fits tightly to the body and does not move during running training.

Orlett MKN-103

This knee brace Orlett MKN-103 is easily fixed, while running it performs the function of cooling the muscles and at the same time warming the knee.

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These bandages do not have Velcro, so they cannot be precisely adjusted to a certain size, so if you decide to purchase this model, select the size very carefully.

There is also one more feature: to put on knee pads of this series, you need to take off your shoes first.

401 PHARMACELS Compression Knee Support Closed Patella Pharmacels

This lightweight knee pad is made of three-layer neoprene. It fits snugly and is specially designed for long and comfortable wear. The knee pad retains natural heat, improves blood supply to the ligaments of the knee joint, and also creates precise compression.

This product can be used for sports, when increasing physical activity, during the treatment of injuries and pathologies, as well as during the recovery process after surgery. The size range is quite large - it can also be worn by a child aged 6 years.

McDavid 410

This knee brace is perfect for athletes who frequently experience knee injuries. This is a real find for track and field athletes.

The knee pad provides reliable and rigid fixation of the knee, as well as a compression effect. This protects the knee from possible injuries.

The base of the knee pad is a neoprene bandage. It supports and fixes the knee joint and has a warming effect.

At the same time, the material from which these knee pads are made allows the skin to breathe and absorbs moisture. It does not restrict movement, so the runner can freely bend and straighten the leg at the knee.

In addition, this product can be used to restore the knee after injury. The size range is quite extensive, so an athlete of any age and build can choose a retainer for himself.

Rehband 7751

The protective sports knee brace Rehband 7751 provides comfort, reliable fixation of the knee, warms, maintaining physiological range of motion and reducing pain.

These knee pads are made of five-millimeter high-quality thermoprene. In addition, the anatomically accurate cut of this product helps to securely fit on the leg and prevents it from falling off and twisting.

Manufacturers recommend using knee pads, including for running, as well as for playing sports in the gym. The size range of knee pads is wide – from XS to XXL sizes.

Choosing a suitable patella

Preventive knee pads for running are primarily about protecting the joint. However, you also need to feel comfortable while exercising.

It is important that the athlete can perform the running technique correctly, move freely, and follow the training plan.

Therefore, we recommend choosing a comfortable, elastic, breathable, durable, wear-resistant sports caliper.

Textile

Some manufacturers make knee pads from fabrics such as wool or cotton. They fix the joint quite well and are easy to wash.

However, this is where their advantages end. Natural fabrics absorb water. This is almost always an extra load on the joint + tissue hypothermia. Natural materials have poor stretch and tear quickly. Therefore, they are completely unsuitable for runners.

We recommend synthetic high-tech fabrics:

• Nylon;
• Lycra;
• Neoprene;
• Spandex.

Among their advantages: moisture removal, quick drying, high elasticity, strength, wear resistance, tactile comfort, low weight. They are similar to compression underwear for athletes, but have a higher density and thickness.

Focus on trusted manufacturers: LP. Torres. Medi. ASO. Cramer. MedSpecs.

Rules of care

• The knee brace for running may contain various inserts. Before washing, they must be taken out;
• Wash synthetic models by hand (temperature up to 40 degrees) or set to delicate wash;
• Avoid using bleach, ironing, steam drying, or spinning in a washing machine drum;
• Dry knee pads straightened away from radiators and heaters;
• It is better to store calipers in a dry, dark place.

Size

To choose the size, you will need a measuring tape + size chart from a specific manufacturer.

Some meshes require measurements only through the upper edge of the patella, others - through the middle of the knee joint + 15 cm above and 5 cm below it.

Most often, a standard size grid is offered:

It is important that the caliper has smooth seams, does not squeeze, and sits tightly when moving.

Other types of knee pads

A slightly more complex version of support bandages is knee pads with belts. These models are similar in description and characteristics to all of the above. The difference is that such a knee brace not only fits on the leg, but is also secured with Velcro straps crosswise at the back and front of the knee.

The fixation is stronger, a little more weight, guaranteed not to slip. They are best suited after bruises, sprains, and dislocations. These can be used for running, other sports, and in everyday life. They are also recommended for older people.

There are preventive and therapeutic knee pads for running, which are used when returning to sports activities after injuries, that is, when an athlete begins to run little by little and slowly. Such knee pads always have additional stiffening ribs, for example, made of silicone. These inserts act as enhanced support. Most likely, you cannot come to the choice of such a knee brace on your own - only through the prescription of a traumatologist. In addition, these models are very expensive.

Among the sports options for knee pads, there are models with a small cushion in the area of ​​the kneecap - these are models for playing volleyball or football. This seal protects against falls that constantly happen while playing. In theory, these are suitable for running, but runners have absolutely no need for them if they have knee braces.

Also, for football players, there are often models in which a plastic kneecap is inserted, and a kneecap-bandage is pulled on top. For running, such bandages (a plastic knee pad, of course, is not used) may not be suitable at all, since they provide space for a cap, and they may be larger in size and constantly slide off the leg.

Top quality bandages

LP 631

A durable knee wrap that is made from breathable materials for comfort. The tight fit ensures that the product will not fall off during frequent movements. The material will not lose its elasticity even with frequent washing, which can also be considered an advantage. Once secured, the user does not experience any compression. The warranty period is 2 years, which is a good result for such a product. Contains 58% nylon.

The average cost is 1,100 rubles.

LP 631

Advantages:

• Convenience;
• Simple fixation with Velcro;
• Easy to wrap;
• Durability;
• Guarantee.

Flaws:

• Not found.

Grozz GR-BK1

A good elastic bandage that is suitable for those who often run. The product is made of reliable materials that do not deteriorate from prolonged wear. The appearance is standard. Fixation is carried out using a special Velcro, which is a good solution.

Cost – 800 rubles.

Grozz GR-BK1

Advantages:

• Tight fit;
• Breathable material;
• Convenient manufacturing;
• Value for money.

Flaws:

• Not found.

FitRule black-green LIGHT

Good knee bandages that will help you run safer and protect a person from various injuries. The material does not irritate the skin, so there will be no problems when wearing it. It is fastened with a special Velcro; in addition, there is an additional fixation that prevents arbitrary unraveling. Package weight: 200 grams. Suitable for bodybuilding, fitness, running, etc.

Sold at a price: from 1,490 rubles.

FitRule black-green LIGHT

Advantages:

• Convenient manufacturing;
• Long service life;
• Efficiency;
• Reliable manufacturing;
• Pleasant appearance;
• Softness.

Flaws:

• Not detected.

Contraindications for use

Experts identify several reasons why it is not recommended to purchase and wear the product in question:

1. The appearance of dermatological diseases.
2. An allergic reaction to the material used in the manufacture of the product.
3. Violations of the integrity of blood vessels.
4. The appearance of ulcers.
5. Inflammatory processes that affect the knee joint.

If the condition worsens, it is recommended to consult a specialist. Some joint problems cause the athlete to be unable to walk.

Tips for choosing a caliper

The choice of caliper is carried out according to various criteria.

The most important selection criteria are the following:

• Knee size. According to this indicator, there are a large number of options for making bandages on sale.
• Degree of physical activity. With high activity, you need to purchase rigid options that do not allow unnecessary movements.

The purchased bandage should fit the joint, allow air to pass through and not create discomfort when moving. If discomfort occurs, it is not recommended to wear the product, as this may lead to worsening of the knee condition.