Knee Braces For Runners And Athletes (2024)

Have you ever noticed athletes sporting knee braces during games or runs, and you've wondered what they are and how they help?

Jenna Walls, MD, a sports medicine physician with Franciscan Physician Network Sports Medicine Specialists Indianapolis, explains how these braces can be the first line of defense against common knee injuries. In her practice, Dr. Walls sees knee braces help with patellofemoral pain syndrome (cartilage damage under the kneecap), patellar tendinopathy (jumper's knee) and iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome.

"Common knee injuries we see in patients include ligament tears or sprains, meniscus tears and cartilage injuries," said Dr. Walls. "Older athletes may struggle with knee pain because of osteoarthritis." Knee braces can reduce knee pain, prevent knee injuries and help an athlete recover after an injury.

Doctors frequently advise athletes and active individuals to use knee braces. Wearing knee braces can prevent injuries or support previously injured knees during high-risk and contact sports like football, basketball, soccer, running and skiing.

Which Sports Benefit Most From Knee Braces?

Whether you're hitting the football field, the basketball court or the running tracks, knee braces can be particularly beneficial. They're not just for show; they provide crucial support for high-impact sports and activities. The guidance from experts underlines their significance across various sports, ensuring athletes can perform at their best with reduced risk of injury.

How Can Knee Braces Manage Pain And Help With Recovery?

If you're experiencing knee pain or recovering from an injury, knee braces might be the solution.

"Functional and rehabilitative knee braces offer some control of knee rotation," Dr. Walls said.

While these braces can enhance the stability and function of an injured knee, it's essential to prioritize lower extremity muscle strengthening, flexibility, and biomechanical factors over solely relying on braces. Focusing on the lower legs ensures comprehensive rehabilitation and reduces the risk of recurring injuries.

Are Specific Types Of Braces Better Suited For Pain Relief Versus Recovery?

Are you uncertain which knee brace is best for pain relief or which might better help with recovery? The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) categorizes knee braces into several types:

• Prophylactic: Primarily used for preventing or reducing the severity of knee injuries, doctors recommend prophylactic braces, especially in contact sports like football. They can help with medial collateral ligament (MCL) injuries.
• Functional: Designed to provide stability for unstable knees, functional braces help with injuries such as anterior collateral ligament (ACL) tears or posterior collateral ligament (PCL) injuries. They can offer support after ACL surgery.
• Rehabilitative: Designed to allow protected, controlled motion, doctors recommend rehabilitative devices during the rehabilitation of an injured knee.
• Patellofemoral: These braces improve patellar tracking (when the kneecap shifts out of place) and relieve anterior knee pain.

Knee braces can help with pain relief, injury preventionor recovery after injury. Understanding the different types of support can help you determine which type of knee brace aligns best with your specific needs.

Are There Risks To Using A Knee Brace?

Relying too much on knee braces can have its drawbacks.

"Improper use or overuse of a knee brace can potentially cause the affected knee to weaken," said Dr. Walls. "Prolonged bracing can also lead to lack of movement, which can cause stiffness and soreness of the muscles responsible for knee movement."

People should use knee braces with an appropriate knee rehabilitation program focusing on strengthening, flexibility, proprioception (awareness of the position of the body) and gradual return to physical activity.

Talk to your sports medicine provider or athletic trainer about how often you should use a knee brace and the benefits.

"Wearing a knee brace all day often only applies to those who had knee surgery," she said.

How Do You Get A Good Fit And Avoid Discomfort?

When choosing a knee brace, proper fit is also essential.

"An ill-fitting brace can leave the knee susceptible to further injury and lead to increased knee pain," Dr. Walls said.

Ensuring your knee brace fits snugly is crucial. Excessively tight knee braces can interfere with circulation, and loose ones fail to provide adequate support. Properly using the braces and regularly tightening the straps and adjustable closures will help prevent the brace from shifting. Additionally, you should promptly replace broken or damaged knee braces.

For runners and athletes, finding the right brace depends on your knee pain or injury and your athletic goals. A physician, physical therapist or athletic trainer can provide invaluable guidance in selecting the best brace based on your goals and needs.

Can Wearing A Knee Brace Make Knee Problems Worse?

While knee braces offer valuable support and protection, there's a caveat.

"Research suggests that wearing a knee brace can create a false sense of security for injured and previously injured athletes," said Dr. Walls.

Despite the added support provided by knee braces, you should recognize that wearing a brace doesn't protect you against further injury.

"Athletes should limit any activity that causes a significant increase in knee pain, even if they are wearing a brace," she said.

Overlooking warning signs and pushing beyond pain thresholds can make existing injuries worse or lead to new ones.

And if you're recovering from surgery, proceed with caution.

"Athletes who recently had surgery should not advance their activity level faster than their physician recommends," Dr. Walls said.

Rushing the rehabilitation process by using a brace can delay proper healing and potentially prolong recovery time.

When Should You Talk To Your Provider?

Before you jump on the knee brace bandwagon, talk to your provider or physical therapist.

"If an athlete has sustained a significant knee injury, it's important to get an evaluation before trying a knee brace," Dr. Walls said.

Athletes who have questions about whether a knee brace is appropriate can also benefit from consulting a physician. Your provider will consider many factors when determining the best recovery plan, including your injury history, current knee pain, current activity level, activity goals and your strength and biomechanics.

A Balanced Approach to Knee Health

Knee braces are a valuable tool in your efforts to prevent injury, reduce pain relief and help with recovery. But they are just one piece of the puzzle. Remember to include strength training, flexibility exercises and proper rehabilitation to get your knees feeling better. Let our sports medicine team help you with your athletic recovery. And if you're looking for a new training program, our coaches offer athletic development and sports performance training designed to address your specific goals.