Knee braces are a common tool used to prevent or manage knee injuries. They come in various types and designs to serve different purposes. Two of the most commonly used knee braces are regular knee support braces and hinged knee braces. While both are designed to provide support and protection to the knee joint, they differ in their structure, function, and the types of injuries they are best suited for.

What injuries may require a Knee Brace?

Any factor that alters the normal movement of the knee joint can cause pain in the region.

There are many causes of knee pain and the most common include:

– Sports Injuries
– Osteoarthritis (OA)
– Ligament injury
– Meniscal injury
– Patellar pain
– Tendinopathies

Whether you’re an active sports player or a sedentary person, the knee joint may become damaged for various reasons. A knee brace may help reduce pain as it supports all the structures surrounding your knee joint, shares the load of your knee, and avoids excessive movements of the knee joint, all of which are key measures for fast healing.

What are the different types of Knee Braces?

A regular knee support brace, also known as a sleeve or wrap, is a simple elastic or neoprene sleeve that fits snugly around the knee joint. It is designed to provide compression and support to the knee, which helps reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain. Regular knee support braces are lightweight, flexible, and easy to wear under clothing. They are most commonly used for minor knee injuries such as sprains, strains, and patellar instability.

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On the other hand, a hinged knee brace is a more advanced type of knee brace that includes metal or plastic hinges on either side of the knee joint. The hinges provide additional support and stability to the knee, limiting its movement in specific directions. This helps prevent further injury to the knee and promotes healing. Hinged knee braces are generally bulkier and heavier than regular knee support braces. They are best suited for moderate to severe knee injuries such as ligament tears, meniscus injuries, and post-surgical recovery.

What is the difference between Regular Knee Brace and a Hinged Knee Brace?

The ideal knee brace for pain depends on your activity level and the type of injury you have. One of the key differences between regular knee support braces and hinged knee braces is the level of support they provide. Regular knee support braces offer general support and compression to the knee joint, whereas hinged knee braces offer more targeted support and stabilisation. The hinges in hinged knee braces can be adjusted to limit or control the range of motion in the knee joint, depending on the type and severity of the injury.

Another difference between regular knee support braces and hinged knee braces is their level of comfort and mobility. Regular knee support braces are lightweight and flexible, making them comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. They do not restrict movement or range of motion in the knee joint, which allows for greater mobility. Hinged knee braces, on the other hand, can be more restrictive and bulkier, which can limit mobility and be uncomfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, regular knee support braces and hinged knee braces are both effective tools for preventing and managing knee injuries. Regular knee support braces are best suited for minor knee injuries, providing general support and compression to the knee joint. Hinged knee braces, on the other hand, are more advanced and offer targeted support and stabilisation to the knee joint.  This makes them best suited for moderate to severe knee injuries. The choice between the two types of knee braces depends on the type and severity of the injury, as well as the level of comfort and mobility required by the user.