| What to look for in a knee brace really depends on | | | | and will be covered under some medical insurance |
| the type of injury a person has sustained. For mild | | | | policies. Some of these knee braces include a system |
| injuries such as a first-degree sprain a more | | | | that allows ice water to circulate through tubes |
| inexpensive, lightweight brace made from nylon, | | | | around the knees to keep the pain and swelling down |
| Lycra, or neoprene can be used. This type of brace | | | | which is a big necessity in many cases. |
| will provide some support and compression and is | | | | Other injuries and disorders may call for any one of |
| usually used in conjunction with or alternating with ice | | | | the types of knee braces that have been discussed |
| pack treatments. Knee braces of this type are | | | | here depending on the severity of the injury. There |
| relatively inexpensive and should really be kept | | | | are even some braces specially made for certain |
| on-hand in every home as a possible first-aid | | | | ailments, such as arthritis, which can reduce pain, |
| treatment for minor sprains and pulls that can occur | | | | stabilize the knee joint and even help to build muscle. |
| during recreational sports or even doing household | | | | It is a good idea to ask your doctor or physical |
| tasks. | | | | therapist to make a recommendation as to the type |
| A second-degree sprain may involve some ligament | | | | of knee brace that is best for you. Using the right |
| tearing and will require slightly more support. While | | | | type of knee braces can have a big impact on the |
| compression is still provided, these knee braces will | | | | quality and speed of your recovery. |
| usually also include some type of hinge mechanism to | | | | Once you understand the type of brace you need |
| allow some controlled movement of the knee to | | | | you will want to find the best quality brace at the |
| prevent stiffness. This type of knee brace may also | | | | best possible price. An excellent place to find high |
| be made of nylon, Lycra or neoprene, but usually | | | | quality knee braces from manufacturers like DonJoy, |
| with the addition of straps, thicker padded support | | | | Aircast and Procare is at They offer a 90-day |
| and sometimes even plastic "armor". These knee | | | | guarantee and free shipping on orders over $100. |
| braces are a little more expensive than their more | | | | It is important to remember to wear your knee |
| flexible counterparts and usually would be purchased | | | | braces whenever you do any type of physical |
| on an as-needed basis, although serious athletes or | | | | activity. Even activities such as walking or light house |
| weekend warriors may want to keep one at the | | | | cleaning can reinjure your knee if you do not take |
| ready. | | | | proper precautions and allow enough time for healing |
| A third-degree sprain is more serious, involving a | | | | to take place. Healthy knees are so important not |
| rupture of the tendon and usually requires surgery. | | | | only to sports performance, but to your everyday |
| Braces for this type of injury need to provide a lot | | | | quality of life so it is vital to choose your knee |
| more support, while still allowing some movement. | | | | braces with care and use them properly as needed. |
| This type of brace may even require a prescription | | | | |