A knee brace is a supportive tool that you wear to reduce knee pain. The use isn’t constrained to only those who have injuries but can be used for protection by people who play sports. With the help of some of the best knee braces, you can eliminate unwanted pain or reduce the risk of further injury in the knee area.
Types of knee braces
Knee braces are available in different shapes and sizes. The material used to make it also varies. There are braces that are made from metal, foam, plastic and elastic material.
They can broadly be divided into 4 different types which are as follows:
- Prophylactic brace: These braces are designed especially for injuries that are encountered during football games.
- Functional brace: These types of braces are designed to provide relief to the knees once the injury has already happened.
- Rehabilitative brace: With these braces on you can minimize the knee pain and heal the knee
- Patellofemoral brace: Make it easier for you to move the kneecap smoothly over the knee joint.
The real question now arises that do knee braces actually work? Many studies have been conducted which have supported the use of knee rehabilitative and functional braces being the most effective. People worry knee braces can increase pain instead of reducing it, however, it should only be used after having consulted with a doctor.
Uses of knee braces
When should a knee brace be used depends on the kind of knee problem encountered. The doctors’ opinion has a great say in when it should be used.
Most quality knee braces come with hinges which means that when putting them on you need to be careful. If it comes with a strap it should be fastened around the leg. The placement and positioning are really important. In order to get effective results, it is important that you wear the knee brace consistently and correctly.
Knee braces can be damaged easily which is why inspection is important. It should be cleaned regularly with soap and water. If worn out, the brace should be replaced immediately to bring about effective results.
Benefits of Knee Braces
People suffering from arthritis or having severe knee problems can use knee braces to reduce pain and stay active.
Some exercises are made easy with it. There are exercises that may lead to injury for which wearing it is a perfect suggestion. Knee braces while offering protection make it easier for you to carry out these exercises.
Knee braces help keep ligaments and leg muscles in good condition. They can also be worn to improve overall posture. Although hard to believe but knee pain can really impact the posture which is why one should wear it.
Drawbacks of Using a Knee Brace
There are certain drawbacks associated with knee braces. They may eradicate pain but if the condition is serious, the need for surgery may still arise.
You shouldn’t completely rely on knee braces because in most cases they may increase the pain instead of reducing it. Also, they may not be aesthetically appealing (though some are) which is why most people refuse to wear them.
6 Best Knee Braces – Our Picks and Reviews
For your ease, we have highlighted the top-rated knee braces available on Amazon that can be used to reduce knee pain and heal.
1. Vive Hinged Knee Brace by Vive
This popular knee brace for pain by Vive comes with hinges on both sides to provide proper support. The hinges, if not required, can be removed easily. The use of this product will provide you with the required stability making it easier for you to walk. It will improve the lateral stability and assist in recovery.
The compression material is suitable for supporting injured muscles and joints. It is made using material that is breathable allowing it to be worn throughout the day. It comes with a latex-free neoprene that can provide adequate compression.
No need to fix the knee brace again and again. Once worn this product yields has a customized fit. The company provides a 60 day unconditional guarantee allowing you to purchase this product without any doubts.
Customers who have purchased the product have mentioned the stability this knee brace provides. It is comforting and allows you to carry on with the daily activities.
Furthermore, customers have also appreciated the perfect fitting of the knee brace which eliminates the need to fix it again and again. It is effective in reducing knee pain and providing all necessary functions that are required.
Pros:
- Removable hinges
- Supports injuries
- Adequate compression
- Breathable material
- Latex free neoprene
- Extra strength fasteners
Cons:
- Brace may bunch up and not stay in place
2. Knee Brace by Winzone
This knee brace by Winzone is among the top selling products on Amazon. It meets all the requirements of providing comfort and support.
The dual sides stabilizers that come with it help reduce pain without restricting movement. Overall the brace is very flexible which makes it easy to put on and take off. It is popular for the comfort it provides, you won’t even know you are wearing it.
The open patella design allows necessary support and compression to be provided around the kneecap. This knee brace will reduce the stress on the knee joint allowing you to exercise without any pains.
This item is suitable for use by both men and women. It can fit on the right as well as the left leg. The adjustable straps that come along can be attached to any exterior point to avoid slipping. Made using high-quality breathable material it helps improve overall blood circulation.
Customer reviews regarding the product state that it is a good product that effectively deals with knee pain. Customers have also appreciated the lightweight of the product stating that you can wear it all day and won’t be irritated by having it on.
Pros:
- Ergonomic design for optimal support and compression
- Pain relief and injury prevention
- Suitable for either knee
- Breathable material
- Doesn’t restrict movement
Cons:
- Velcro may not hold
3. Uflex Athletics Knee Compression Sleeve
Another popular knee brace is this one by Uflex. The purpose of this knee brace is to help reduce swelling, soreness, and stiffness in the knee area. It also provides a heating effect for faster recovery of the damaged muscles.
This knee brace is suitable for use during all sports activities. Whether you’re a football player, golfer or a basketball player, it is suitable for use by all. It will assist in running and jumping without feeling pain. The anti-slip silicone makes sure that stable compression is provided during times of exercise.
It comes in different sizes allowing you to purchase it according to your size. The compression allows it to remove the tightening effect. It is lightweight which means that it can be worn all day for maximum comfort.
Customer reviews regarding this item talk about how the knee brace is effective in allowing you to exercise without feeling a tinge of pain. The brace is very comfortable and helpful. It allows you to improve the overall quality of life by removing unwanted pain and making it easier for you to walk again.
Pros:
- Has a heating effect for the affected area
- Reduces knee joint stress
- Anti-slip silicone
- Stable, graduated compression
- Improves athletic performance and recovery
Cons:
- Sizing runs small
- Not enough knee support
4. CopperJoint Copper Infused Compression Knee Sleeve
Made using nylon that is copper infused, this knee brace by CopperJoint is the perfect solution for dealing with knee pain. The knee brace, along with removing your knee pain, will also improve overall blood circulation. With it on you can remain comfy all day long. It is able to provide the perfect temperature that can cure soreness.
The knee brace is made using a breathable and copper infused fabric that can help you stay warm and when the temperature falls. The infused copper will also prevent bad odor from arising allowing you to wear it throughout the day. With that, the copper also prevents the skin from encountering any irritation.
The main purpose of this knee brace is to help in quick recovery by reducing inflammation, soreness and knee pain. This item is suitable for people of all ages. It will make you active again and reduce the pain that you have been encountering because of knee injuries.
Customers have talked about how these sleeves provide appropriate compression and stability. It is especially of great use to athletes as it improves their overall performance.
Customers have further talked about how the sleeves can be worn for a longer time period and the comfort level that they provide.
Pros:
- Comfortable, copper infused knee support
- Breathable, durable material
- Stimulates oxygen delivery to muscles and improves circulation
- Anti-odor properties
- Enhances performance and speeds recovery
- Suitable for all ages and fitness levels
Cons:
- Wears out quickly
- May not fit according to chart
5. Knee Brace by Bracoo
This Bracoo product also is part of the top-selling knee braces. The open patella design allows you to encounter knee pain effectively exposing you to better movement. It is perfect for those who suffer from arthritis or have recently had a surgery done.
The knee brace comes with a stabilizer ring that ensures that the cap remains in the required position. The option of Velcro straps is also available that can be attached to the exterior points to avoid slipping.
The thick neoprene sleeves provide protection and improve blood circulation. With this knee brace on your skin will not feel any irritation or become sweaty as the features of the brace prevent it from doing so. It is overall a comfortable product that you can purchase to improve your walking abilities.
Customers who have used the product have stated in their reviews that it has put their life at ease. They have further added that the brace stays in place and remains adjusted. According to customers, it is one of the best knee braces for pain that they have used.
Pros:
- Relieves pressure and stress on knees
- Reinforced stabilizer ring
- Customizable Velcro straps
- Extra thick neoprene sleeve
- Improves muscle oxygenation
- Discreet design suitable for either knee
Cons:
- Sleeve slips
- One size may not fit all
6. Knee Support Sleeve by Mava Sports
This knee brace by Mava sports is a comfortable tool that can effectively reduce knee pain without giving rise to stiffness, itching or slipping. The product provides full mobility and added comfort.
This brace is shaped anatomically in order to prevent injuries from taking place and to speed up the recovery process. If you want to heal quickly, It is the solution.
The lightweight and soft material allows the knee brace to be worn every day and without tightening the leg. The item is suitable for use by all, women and men. It can reduce the swelling and can be used during workout sessions.
Whether you are training, weightlifting or indulged in any other activity you can put on the sleeves for maximum comfort.
Customers have labeled this knee support as one of the best available in the market. They have said that it provides the desired comfort level and stability which otherwise was not possible. They have also mentioned that the item can effectively reduce pain levels providing you the ability to walk again properly.
Pros:
- Provides adequate knee support
- Suitable for healing and rehab
- Light and soft material
- All season wear
Cons:
- Rolls down
- Could do with some more support
These are some of the best knee braces available on Amazon. You can choose a style from a brace, strap or sleeve to fit your comfort level and one that suits your medical needs the best.
