From the Guidelines
Knee braces are a viable treatment option for ligamentous knee instability and can be used as an adjunct to muscular rehabilitation for graft protection following ACL reconstruction. According to a study published in the American Family Physician journal in 2000 1, functional knee braces offer some control of external knee rotation and anteroposterior joint translation, and are useful for providing subjectively improved knee stability and function. However, it's essential to note that the objective effects of functional knee braces appear to diminish at physiologic stress levels.
When considering the use of knee braces, it's crucial to prioritize proper rehabilitation and activity modification. Key aspects of treatment include:
- Lower extremity muscle strengthening
- Flexibility improvements
- Technique refinement
These components are more important than functional bracing in treating ligamentous knee injuries, as stated in the study 1. While knee braces have not been shown to be harmful, their correct application depends on appropriate rehabilitation and activity modification.
In terms of specific recommendations, functional knee braces deserve consideration as a component of treatment and rehabilitation for ligamentous knee instability, particularly for providing support and stability during physical activity or daily tasks. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate type of brace and ensure proper fit, as an ill-fitting brace may cause additional problems.
From the Research
Knee Braces and Athletic Performance
- The use of prophylactic knee braces does not significantly inhibit athletic performance, as shown in a study where healthy male athletes wore a prophylactic knee brace or a neoprene knee sleeve while performing various physical tests 2.
- The study found no statistically significant difference in jump height, cross-over hop distance, peak torque to body weight ratio, and average power between the different testing conditions.
Knee Braces and Injury Recovery
- A randomized controlled trial compared the efficacy of a patella-stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace for the treatment of a first-time traumatic patellar dislocation 3.
- The results showed that the use of a patella-stabilizing, motion-restricting knee brace did not result in a statistically significant reduction in redislocations versus a neoprene nonhinged knee brace.
- However, knee immobilization was associated with quadriceps muscle atrophy, less knee ROM, and worse functional outcomes in the first 6 months after the injury.
Knee Braces and Proprioception
- A study found that neoprene knee sleeves can improve proprioception in subjects with poor joint position sense, especially in fatigued states 4.
- The results suggested that bracing is helpful in individuals with a poor baseline proprioceptive acuity in both fatigued and nonfatigued states.
- Subjects with a good joint position sense benefit from bracing only when in a fatigued state.
Knee Braces and Osteoarthritis
- A study evaluated the effect of wearing a soft knee brace on activity limitations in patients with knee osteoarthritis 5.
- The results showed that decreased pain and improved dynamic knee instability mediate the beneficial effect of wearing a soft knee brace on activity limitations in patients with knee osteoarthritis.
- The study suggested that wearing a soft knee brace can decrease activity limitations in patients with knee OA by reducing pain and dynamic knee instability.