What is a knee brace?

If you are planning to return to sports after an injury, a knee brace is the right choice. It does not restrict movement and protects the knee joint from injury or physical stress.

Knee braces: differences in the level of support

level of support – Degree of limitation of the physiological range of motion of the knee joint.

1. Slight degree of immobilization – Restriction of no more than one third of the physiological range of motion.
2. Moderate or semi-rigid degree of immobilization – Restriction of no more than half of the physiological range of motion.
3. Strong or rigid immobilization – Maximum limitation of the range of motion by two-thirds of the physiological range of motion.

Knee Pads: Materials

main material – Tissues in contact with the skin. Must be hypoallergenic, comfortable to the touch, flexible and breathable. Knee braces are made from: neoprene, elastane, nylon, cotton and elastane.

The first difference – Some types of knee braces are fixed and slip over the leg like a sleeve. Others are divisible and have fasteners such as Velcro.

Benefits of split kneecaps with fasteners:

• Adaptability to anatomical conditions.
• Ability to change the level of immobilization as pain and/or swelling changes.
• As a rule, an exact size does not have to be specified when purchasing.

secondary difference. – Open or closed type of orthosis. An open brace has a special opening in the front for the kneecap. Closed orthoses are one-piece and have no holes.

• They relieve pressure on the kneecap when the joint is flexed.
• The knee can breathe better and less moisture accumulates under the thick material during physical activity.

Elastic base orthoses

The simplest type of protection. Provides fixation, distributes the load while maintaining full mobility and maintaining warmth. The material is dense, stretchy and completely covers the fixation zone. Available in split or unsplit, open or closed design.

Recommended application: Mild knee pain and/or swelling, sprains, arthritis, tendinitis, bursitis, chondromalacia.

Not recommended for use: for moderate to severe instability and pain.

How to choose a knee brace?

The maximum benefit of a knee brace can only be achieved if the brace is the correct size for the knee. Also, an ill-fitting brace can have the opposite effect and lead to injury.

First, decide for what purpose you are choosing the knee brace. If you don't have a serious injury or illness, a lightweight brace is right for you and is widely used to prevent knee injuries, including during athletic activities. If you have a knee problem, choosing a brace should be done in consultation with your doctor, who will find the right product for you and determine how long you should wear it.

How do I choose the right knee brace?

To choose a knee brace, you need to take some measurements. On the OPTECA website you can find a detailed table that gives the measurements for each model. Use the handy table by clicking the 'How do you customize?

In terms of design, there are open, closed and articulated knee braces.

Hinge orthoses are intended for the conservative treatment of injuries and diseases of the knee joint. The adjustable joint allows for an early functional and gradual increase in range of motion in the postoperative period or in the conservative treatment of knee injuries and diseases.

The open knee joint is a soft fixation knee joint and is used for severe pain. An open knee joint is a good choice to speed up rehabilitation after surgery or injury. Such knee orthoses are light and safe. The load on the joint is noticeably reduced and also has a warming effect.

Closed orthoses are a one-piece construction with no openings. They serve to firmly stabilize all parts of the knee joint, reduce pain and improve blood flow to the soft tissues around the knee. Closed orthoses retain heat better.

How should knee braces be worn?

• If you have knee problems or in the postoperative phase, your doctor will decide how long you have to wear the orthosis.
• The knee brace should be worn seated with the leg bent at an angle of 30 degrees.
• The brace should be worn on bare legs or can be worn over thin thermal underwear or stockings, choosing seamless stockings as the seams of the brace can cause discomfort and compression;
• In general, the orthosis should only be removed to shower twice a day; the product should be worn on a clean and dry leg to avoid irritation.

The OPTEKA range of orthoses offers you a selection of orthoses with different degrees of stiffness, designs and materials.

The BAUERFEIND GenuTrain A3 knee orthosis is ideal for treating various knee problems: arthrosis in the knee, arthrosis in the knee, complicated knee pain or patella valgus. This dynamic orthosis is ideal for athletes and the elderly.

The effective BAUERFEIND SecuTec Genu functional orthosis is ideal for long-term stabilization of the knee joint in the event of torn ligaments, damaged collateral ligaments or meniscus operations. It is light but very stable and offers a high level of comfort thanks to the perfect fit and easy application.

The BAUERFEIND MOS Genu knee orthosis is a functional and safe orthosis for stabilizing the knee joint. It is available in a long version, however the extension pieces can be removed to reduce the length to a convenient standard patella. It is based on the four-point fixation principle and stabilizes and relieves the knee joint. The aluminum frame of the orthosis adapts to the anatomy of the body and its shape can be changed (the adjustable axes also contribute to this). The breathable laminate lining ensures a comfortable and secure fit. It is attached with Velcro fasteners.

Features of using and wearing the orthosis

Thermoplastic orthoses are custom-made. The modeling process takes place directly on the patient's body.

The low-temperature plastic essentially consists of gypsum, which becomes malleable at temperatures between 60 and 100 °C. The material is usually heated in water or a water bath. It then molds easily and sets within 5-7 minutes.

Thanks to the shape-memory effect, the material can be repeatedly heated and takes on a new shape each time. In this way, the orthosis can be adjusted during treatment if necessary.

A preparatory phase always precedes the application of an orthopedic bandage. The orthopedist makes the diagnosis, determines the goals of the orthosis and selects the appropriate type of orthosis. This is a very important moment, because the condition of the joint determines the degree of fixation required:

• With a light fixation, the orthosis supports the joint slightly, relieves it, but does not restrict its mobility;
• medium - restricts range of motion and allows only safe positions for the joint;
• heavy - restricts the movement of the joint from one of the protrusions;
• total – turns off the movement of the joint completely (rest).

Correct use of an osteoarthritis brace is key to quickly resolving the problem and restoring movement function. Therefore, the work must be performed by a doctor, an orthopedic trauma surgeon. A list of clinics where such specialists are available can be found here.

When using a thermoplastic orthosis, the following points should be considered:

1. The shape of the device should allow comfortable positioning of the limb and be fully compatible with the topography of the limb surface.
2. Sharp edges should be smoothed out to avoid accidental injury to the skin.
3. The weight and strength of the device directly depend on the parameters of the blank, so its thickness should be chosen in accordance with the functionality of the design.
4. The length of the orthosis should optimally distribute the load without restricting the mobility of the healthy joints.

Functionality in osteoarthritis and arthrosis

The use of thermoplastic orthoses helps to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of the disease and brings significant relief. They have unique characteristics and achieve

• the fixation of the joint in the correct position with the slightest load, which significantly slows down the wear and tear of the cartilage tissue;
• Maintaining adequate blood supply to the joint for better tissue regeneration;
• elimination of pain, swelling and inflammation;
• reducing rehabilitation time after an aggravation or injury;
• increase in mobility.

In addition, the use of a joint orthosis in the acute phase avoids additional tissue trauma and minimizes disease manifestations in the chronic phase.

Choice of models

For best results, you need to know how to choose a knee brace. These products must be prescribed by a doctor after a thorough examination of the joint. To choose the right knee brace, you should strictly follow the doctor's recommendations. Certain features of the product should also be considered.

Especially soft models are usually prescribed to athletes and people with physically demanding activities. They provide good support for the knee but do not limit its mobility.

Semi-rigid orthoses are prescribed for rehabilitation after surgery and injuries. In addition, this type is used to treat chronic leg diseases, as well as internal injuries of the knee. The recommendations for wearing a rigid knee brace relate to the treatment of fractures, torn ligaments and other serious injuries. Their function is to hold the joint firmly in a specific position.

The material from which the orthoses are made is also an important parameter. The following materials are used for crafting:

• Cotton. Used for the manufacture of orthoses intended for long-term wear. This material does not cause skin irritation or other skin problems and does not cause allergies.
• spandex and lycra. The material ensures a reliable fit, promotes air exchange and has a cooling effect.
• Spandex – used to make fixation braces.
• Neoprene is a synthetic material with a pronounced warming effect and strong fixation. It is designed for short term wear.

Choosing the size of the knee brace

The orthosis must be individually adapted to the patient and the structure of his leg. That is why it is important to know how to determine the size of the knee brace. To do this, take the following measurements:

• the girth of the knee in the middle;
• the girth at a height of 10-15 cm above the kneecap (depending on the manufacturer, the recommendation may vary);
• Similar measurements below the kneecap;

Optimal results can be achieved with the correct size of the knee orthosis.

choice of model

You can choose the right orthosis yourself or with the help of a specialist. It is best to consult your doctor, who will advise you on which model is best for you depending on the level of stress and training intensity. But other criteria also play an important role.

A positive effect is only guaranteed if the right size is chosen. This requires measurement prior to purchase. They need to be measured:

It is important to only measure while standing. With the right and responsible choice, the sports orthoses support the muscles and joints during sports activities with a high degree of effectiveness. Therefore, neck circumference should be taken into account for neck orthoses and ankle circumference for back orthoses.

wearing and care

In order to achieve the optimal effect of such devices, it is necessary to strictly follow the manufacturer's recommendations. There are also some points to consider when wearing the devices:

1. Wearing right-handers. Only a good fit ensures the maximum effectiveness of the chosen model. The wearer should feel a slight tension when wearing it. At the same time, the product must not pinch or restrict movement. In addition, it should be comfortable. It is extremely important to choose the right size of the model, otherwise there may be inconvenience during training or a lack of benefit from wearing the bandage.
2. duration of use. A doctor should also be consulted when it comes to the question of how long the orthosis can be worn. There are many details to consider.

It is obvious that the product will become dirty after intensive use. Therefore, the care of the orthosis should not be forgotten. Soft constructions can be washed in an ordinary washing machine. Other models may only be cleaned by hand due to the frame. Do not use powders with aggressive ingredients. We recommend washing at 40 degrees Celsius with a mild soap. To dry, lay the garment flat on a horizontal surface.

In summary, sports orthoses are an indispensable product for people who want to resume sports activities after an injury or who want to prevent injuries during training and strength training.

Choice of models

In order to achieve the desired effect, it is important to choose the right orthosis. The model is prescribed by a specialist after a thorough diagnosis of the knee. Therefore, when choosing an orthosis, pay attention to the recommendations of the doctor.

The product properties play an important role. For example, versions with soft support are recommended for athletes and people who are exposed to constant physical stress. Soft models support the knee adequately, but do not impair its motor function.

Versions with semi-rigid fixation are suitable for rehabilitation after surgery and trauma. In addition, this model is used to treat chronic leg conditions as well as internal lesions of the knee.

Rigid models are prescribed after fractures, ligament injuries of the knee joint and other serious complications. They effectively support the joints in an anatomically correct position.

The composition of the product plays an important role. The following components are used to manufacture the orthoses:

• spandex. This material is characterized by good support and ensures sufficient air exchange.
• Cotton. Often used for the manufacture of orthoses intended for permanent wear. This material does not cause rashes or other pathologies and is hypoallergenic.
• Spandex - used for the manufacture of orthoses with soft parts.
• Polychloroprene - a type of synthetic rubber with a pronounced heat effect and strong fixation.

Wearing and care of orthoses

The therapeutic and prophylactic effect of the orthosis depends on its correct use. The therapist's instructions must be followed precisely when using the orthosis. According to standard usage instructions, the knee brace should be worn on bare knees or over thin clothing. At the same time, there should be no scratches or dirt on the skin.

The wearing time should also be taken into account. How long the knee brace should be worn is determined individually by the doctor depending on the diagnosis. On average, the product is worn for about thirty days. It is recommended to take off the orthosis for half an hour at most twice a day for hygiene.

The orthosis should be washed at regular intervals. However, the metal parts should be removed first. Washing is done by hand. The water temperature should not exceed 20 degrees. The chlorine level is unacceptable. The orthosis should then be air-dried without exposing it to direct sunlight.

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Which knee brace is the best?

Each knee orthosis has a specific function. The main purpose of all knee braces is to place the knee joint in the correct position, distribute the load, reduce pain and get the knee fully functional again as quickly as possible.

Depending on the injury or illness, your doctor will choose a knee brace, but if you play sports or do heavy work, you can choose how to keep your knee in the correct position.

Choosing a knee brace based on stiffness

Knee orthoses are available today in different degrees of hardness. It is important to select the brace based on the severity of the condition or injury:

• Slight stiffening. These orthoses have no stiffening ribs and are designed to limit movement and friction in the joint. These orthoses are indicated to accelerate the healing process of the knee joint in dislocations, inflammatory processes and in the final phase after knee surgery, as well as in synovitis, synovitis, arthrosis and pain syndromes during movement.
• Semi-rigid immobilization. These orthoses are fitted with splints, spokes and stiffening ribs to relieve and support the joint during movement. Semi-rigid orthoses limit movement by half. These orthoses are prescribed for unstable joints, ligament and meniscus injuries and after sports injuries.
• Maximum sedation. These orthoses are equipped with stiffening ribs and additional elements that completely limit the movement of the knee joint. It is a modern alternative to plaster casts. These orthoses are prescribed for severe knee injuries, osteochondropathy, osteoporosis and after surgery.

In order to choose a knee brace with the right degree of immobilization, it is important to consult your doctor.

Choosing a knee brace by type of construction

Depending on their function and purpose, there are two types of knee braces: hingeless and hinged.

Hinged knee braces have movable joints made up of links, splints and springs. These products allow the knee to move in a specific direction, thereby controlling the angle and amplitude of flexion of the leg. Elastic straps, Velcro fasteners or lacing are used for fixation. Articulated knee orthoses are indicated for kneecap injuries, torn ligaments and meniscus injuries.

Articulated knee orthoses are available in three versions:

• Flexible open orthoses with adjustable tension used for osteoarthritis, joint pain and ligament injuries.
• The flexible, closed orthosis enables easy fixation of the knee joint and is suitable for sporty walking and running.
• The flexible open orthosis with lateral stiffening ribs is recommended for pain when jumping and bending knees.

application of the product

The ankle orthosis should be worn as a therapeutic and prophylactic measure

• inflammatory and degenerative diseases of the knee joint;
• inflammatory conditions of the ligaments and joint capsule;
• injuries of varying degrees of difficulty;
• pain caused by untreated injuries;
• during the convalescence period after surgical treatment.

Carry beyond reinforced knee support recommended for athletes who have to put a lot of strain on their legs: track and field athletes, figure skaters, footballers, etc.

Rules for wearing the knee brace

In order to achieve the best possible results when using the knee brace, the following rules should be observed when using it

• The product may only be worn if prescribed by a doctor. Loose elastic bandages without ribs may be used without medical advice;
• Selection and initial fitting should be carried out in the presence of a specialist. This will help determine the correct position and avoid poor or excessive fixation of the joint;
• The length of time the bandage is worn should also be monitored by a doctor or sports trainer, since the ligaments of the knee can be weakened by wearing the bandage for a long time;
• If pain, discomfort or swelling of the knee joint occurs, a specialist should be consulted.

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