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If you are dealing with knee pain/discomfort, it’s important that you know that you are not the only one. There are lots of people who deal with this issue. In fact, it is the second leading cause of chronic pain and approximately 1/3 of all adult Americans report having experienced knee pain at some point.
Many people choose to wear a knee brace to deal with their knee pain. A knee brace will help to support your sore/injured knee, protecting it and offering pain relief and stability. If you have knee surgery, your physician may tell you to wear a knee brace during the recovery period. Some people choose to wear a knee brace to avoid injury or for holistic health.
When you start shopping for a knee brace, you are likely to find yourself overwhelmed by the options. You’ll find a wide variety of features and looks. Like most people, you will probably be confused and maybe a bit stressed. It’s important to note that there are some factors that can help you narrow down your options and find the one that best fits your needs. The most important factor in choosing a knee brace is the reason you are wearing it.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the most common reasons to wear a knee brace. We will follow that by reviewing the 5 best knee braces for working out. Finally, we’ll explain how to properly wash and care for your knee brace to make it last for a long time.Why Wear a Knee Brace?
So, you are shopping for a knee brace- why? What is the reason you will be wearing one of these medical devices? This makes a significant difference in the best one for you.
Whether you are an athlete who just had surgery on your knee, or you are a senior citizen with arthritic knees, there’s a knee brace that will help you. Each brace offers different features/highlights that make them more suited for specific populations. Therefore, determine your why.
Below are some of the most common reasons that people choose to wear a knee brace.Recovery Following Injury
One of the most common reasons that people wear a knee brace is because their physician recommended it following an injury, such as a sprain or strain. When you traumatize your knee in this way, it needs support to heal. You may only need it for a week or so, or you may need it for several months. Your physician will tell you what you need.
A knee brace worn after an injury is a rehabilitative knee brace. This type of brace supports the weight on your knees when walking, standing, or sitting down. It improves your mobility but also decreases the risk of overextending your knee and causing further injury. They protect your knee while it’s injured and tender.Support Following Recovery
Imagine you had an injury- but you have recovered from it. Do you still need a knee brace and if so, what kind? Yes, even after recovering and regaining function, you may still want to support your knee. This will require the use of a functional knee brace. This type of knee brace will give you support and stability as you continue the healing process following an injury and recovery.
As part of your physical therapy and rehabilitation for a knee injury, you will be getting up and moving around. A functional knee brace gives you more security and comfort, making it easier to move. It reduces the risk of exacerbating the injury or causing more damage. It can help you safely regain strength in your knee.Reduces Swelling
Another common reason that people wear a knee brace is to reduce swelling. This is where a compression brace comes in handy. Many times, swelling is accompanied by pain, which can slow down your recovery process. Compression puts pressure on the affected area, improving blood flow and reducing swelling/edema that could be limiting your mobility and causing pain. A compression brace also reduces inflammation and speeds up healing, while making sure that you are comfortable.
You will find that many of the compression braces on the market also have a pocket to hold hot/cold packs. Your physician will recommend which one you need to use based on your injury. This can help improve recovery following an injury as well.Arthritis Relief
Did you know that statistics show that more than 54 million people have some type of arthritis? However, it is believed that the number is much higher because not everyone reports their pain. This condition can affect joints, feet, knees, hands, knuckles, and so much more. The pain, and accompanying inflammation, can sometimes be unbearable.
While a compression brace may help arthritis pain, the most common solution is the unloader brace. This takes off the weight/pressure that can cause arthritic joints to become aggravated. The weight/pressure is removed from the knees and redistributed throughout the body.
This results in less stress/strain on your knees. Your mobility and flexibility are improved- which means circulation/blood flow is also improved. When you combine these factors, you create the ideal conditions for treating pain associated with arthritis and getting on the road to feeling better quickly. If you have arthritis and your knees are giving you trouble, speak with your physician about trying a knee brace.Injury Prevention
So far, we’ve talked about using a knee brace to treat injury and chronic conditions- but there’s really no reason to wait until you are having an issue to protect/preserve your knees. After all, your knees are very important. They are critical for your mobility and being able to get around as you get older. Things like osteoporosis, obesity, and arthritis can affect your knees, resulting in limited range of motion and chronic pain.
This brings us to another type of knee brace, the preventative knee brace, also known as the prophylactic knee brace. This type of knee brace is work to prevent- or at least reduce risk of- injury. It is not necessarily used to treat an existing issue. Many times, you will see professional athletes and sports figures wearing these because they decrease their risk of becoming injured.
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you have to be a professional to wear one. Anyone who is active and doesn’t want to injure their knee can benefit from wearing one of these. In most cases, these are compression braces that improve mobility and movement, while also providing support. A preventative knee brace makes sense for overall joint health and well-being.5 Best Knee Braces for Working Out At-A-GlanceProductHighlightsExo Knee BraceAvailable in 3 different sizesWide range of colors/designs/stylesImproved stability, compression, and warmthContoured fit for comfort and supportTheraICE Rx Compression Knee BraceUses heating/cooling with compression to relieve painSoothes/alleviates pain quicklyBuilt in gel that warms up and cools down$1+ million in salesKneeWrap ProMachine washableLightweight compression sleeveAdvanced stabilization technology for supportComfortable and easy to wearCompressaCompression sleeve and brace all in oneProtects knee from further injuryImproves circulationBudget friendlyKnee HeroProtects and supports knee joint, kneecap, and meniscusBreathable constructionLightweight and comfortable to wearAvailable in a variety of sizes5 Best Knee Braces for Working Out Reviews
If you are dealing with knee issues, working out can be quite difficult. A knee brace can make it easier. Now that you know some of the most common reasons for wearing a knee brace- and the different types- we’re going to review the 5 best knee braces for working out.
They are:Exo Knee BraceTheraICE Rx Compression Knee BraceKneeWrap ProCompressaKnee HeroExo Knee Brace
NameExo SleeveHighlights3 sizesColor, style, & design optionsOffers stability and warmthImproved compressionContoured fitMaterialAntimicrobial neopreneCostUnder $30
When it comes to knee brace sleeves, it makes sense to put Exo Knee brace first since they are highly regarded in the industry and have amazing customer reviews. If you want a knee brace that offers ideal compression, this is the perfect option. The company is known in the industry for being an innovator. This knee brace supports their amazing reputation.
Many sleeves offer only 1 sleeve in a package, so you have to buy 2 if you need a brace for both knees. However, Exo knee brace comes in a 2 pack for only $29. This is one of the best deals you will find. Plus, the company has spent many years of research and has many years of expertise to back up their products.
Exo knee sleeves are one of the only ones that are offered in three sizes to ensure that your needs are met: Light (3 mm), Medium (5 mm), and Heavy (7 mm). If you engage in bodybuilding or weightlifting, the medium and heavy would be best. On the other hand, if you engage in light workouts, the light would do just fine. All of them improve circulation in and around your knees.
These knee brace sleeves improve stability and provide plenty of warmth and stability where you need it most, your knees. If you are looking for a brace that fits like a sleeve and ensures that you have maximum mobility, this may be your best option.
Click here to buy Exo SleeveTheraICE Rx Compression Knee Brace
NameTheraIce Rx Compression Knee BraceHighlightsApplies heat/cool with compression for pain reliefSoothes/alleviates pain quicklyOver $1 million in salesGel can be warmed in microwave or cooled down in fridge/freezerMaterialPlasticCostUnder $40
According to the website, TheraIce Rx Compression Sleeve will alleviate and eliminate knee pain/discomfort quickly when you put it on. The cooling (or warming) sensation is what it does. TheraIce Rx is extremely popular and well-loved, which you can see by the many 5-star reviews that consumers have left. This one is a bit more expensive than Exo Knee Brace, but still one of the more cost-friendly options, coming in at under $40.
You’re probably still wondering if it really works. According to the consumer reviews, yes it does. It offers heat or cooling with the compression required to ensure your knee remains supported and stable. This brace features a gel-pack that you can place in the microwave to warm up or the fridge/freezer to cool, depending on what you need.
By wearing TheraIce Rx during your intense workout sessions or even when simply going for a stroll with your family, you will experience pain-free mobility and freedom. Whether you are using heating or cooling, experts recommend that you do it in 15 minute intervals. Place the gel pack in the pocket for 15 minutes, then let your knee rest for 15 minutes.
TheraIce Rx Compression Knee Brace is the best of several worlds: compression, heating, and cooling in one easy to wear brace.
Click here to by TheraIce Rx Compression Knee BraceKneeWrap Pro
NameKneeWrap ProHighlightsCan be washed in washing machineLightweight compressionComfortableEasy to wearAdvanced stabilization for improved supportMaterialNeopreneCostUnder $40
If you are currently experiencing knee pain/discomfort, you need to get your hands on a KneeWrap Pro sleeve! This is a compression sleeve that you can slip on to quickly relieve your knee pain. This is definitely a knee brace that you want to keep close by, especially if you work out regularly and also have knee pain. According to the website, this knee brace sleeve is machine washable, making it easy to take care of.
KneeWrap Pro also works for those who are on a budget, at only $39. Typically, you’ll find that sleeves do have a lower price point than knee braces, but often they don’t offer as much support. However, KneeWrap Pro does perform at nearly the same level as some of the more expensive knee braces on the market.
When it comes to quality and comfort, you can’t go wrong with KneeWrap Pro.
Click Here to Buy KneeWrap ProCompressa
NameCompressaHighlightsCompression sleeve & braceProtects knee from injuryBudget-friendlyImproves circulationMaterialAir knit fabricCostUnder $60 for 3-pack
Compressa does exactly what its name suggests: offers supportive compression in a sleeve that is easy to wear and supports maximum mobility. It provides the rare combo of a brace/sleeve blend that provides support and all-day comfort. Due to the increased blood flow when wearing Compressa, you are going to notice that swelling is reduced.
Compressa is one of the best-selling knee braces on the market, which is proven through the stellar customer reviews. The company uses German innovation/craftsmanship to create a compression knee brace that fits like a sleeve. It reduces inflammation, which means that pain and stiffness are alleviated. It also offers the option for heat/cold therapy, like the TheraIce Rx sleeve, making it the perfect all-in-one.
Keep in mind that it does have a bit of a higher price point- but it is for 3 knee braces, not 1. Therefore, even at just under $60, it’s a bargain- that’s only $20 per sleeve. Finally, the air knit fabric is light and airy, which means it’s comfortable and soothing to wear.
Click here to buy Compressa Knee SleeveKnee Hero
NameKnee HeroHighlightsProtects/Supports knee joint, meniscus, and kneecapLightweight/comfortable to wearBreathable constructionSeveral sizes availableMaterialHigh-quality, medical-grade materialCostUnder $70
The last knee brace for working out on our list is Knee Hero. This one is a bit higher than the others on our list, but most consumers agree that it’s worth it. One brace will cost you $65. However, you can see by the reviews that consumers don’t mind paying this premium because it does come with a 2-year warranty, which most products do not include.
The features that set this knee brace apart are that it provides protection and support for your knee, kneecap, and meniscus. They are made from a lightweight, breathable, medical-grade fabric, which means they are comfortable and ensure you remain cool and dry when you are wearing them.
You can wear this for an intense workout session or in your daily activities. It will keep you comfortable and supported, while also preventing further injury. It can reduce recovery time following surgery/injury and is beneficial if you struggle with knee pain.
Finally, since it is available in three sizes, you can be sure to get the perfect fit, which helps with recovery/rehabilitation. While it does have a higher price point, it’s worth the investment because it is a top tier product.
Click here to buy Knee Hero knee brace
When you start shopping for a knee brace, you will quickly discover that consumers have a wide variety of options. These five are great options to start with. You can trust that these are all tried and true. Most of them have lots of reviews on their websites proving they are loved.How to Care For Your Knee Brace
As you can see, some of these knee braces are a major investment. That being said, no matter what you pay for yours, it’s important to take proper care of it if you want it to last for any length of time. It’s important to be sure that you wash it regularly- but not too much. You want to keep it clean, but you don’t want to wash it so much that it wears down the fibers/material.
Of course, there are some other things you need to be doing to ensure proper care of your knee brace beyond washing. For example, pay attention to moisture on/around the brace. If you ignore moisture, it can cause mold to grow. When you take your knee brace off, be sure to turn it inside-out to air-dry. This will keep the bacteria from colonizing on your knee brace.
When you do wash it, make sure that you take extra care with it. After all, it is a medical device that could become damaged if you do not handle it properly. Therefore, even if the package says that it’s machine-washable, it’s probably best that you still wash it by hand because items tend to get beat up in the washer and dryer.How to Wash Your Knee Brace
If you wear your knee brace on a regular basis, you are going to need to wash it from time to time. You’ll want to pay attention to the label because different braces require different care/handling. However, below are some general tips for washing your knee brace to ensure that it remains fresh and functional.Handwash
Generally, the detergent/cleaner is the culprit if your knee brace is damaged, not so much the way it’s being washed. However, as long as you are gentle, everything should be perfectly fine.
When you are washing your brace by hand, avoid using a lot of detergents. Also, don’t scrub really hard. If you are washing your knee brace on a regular basis, you won’t need to worry too much about cleaning/scrubbing it. As long as you are regularly washing it, you shouldn’t have to worry about deep cleaning/scrubbing it. The heat/tumbling can cause the brace to become deformed or damaged- usually beyond repair. You will simply have to replace it.Machine Wash
Unfortunately, we live in a society where we’re always on the go and there’s going to be many people who will just try to toss their knee brace in the washing machine when it’s time to clean it. However, as mentioned, some knee braces are delicate and throwing them in the washer can cause damage, permanently changing the fit, shape, and compression ability.
If you use a knee brace sleeve, you need to pay attention to the label. Some will say that they are machine washable. However, you still need to be extra careful. Don’t wash it with the rest of your laundry, but by itself so it’s not being beaten up by the other clothes. Also, be sure to set your machine on gentle/delicate and don’t use a lot of detergent. Finally, even if you do wash in the machine, you still need to air dry.Boil in Water
If your knee brace is substantially soiled/stinky, but you don’t want to toss it and get a new one, you can try boiling it in water. This method is perfectly safe for most fabrics, but you may want to read the label if you’re not sure.
Start by filling a pot/Dutch oven with water and bring to a boil. Once the water has reached a rolling boil, carefully add the knee brace and reduce to a simmer. Allow to boil for five minutes. Remove pot from heat and add a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent and stir/agitate with a wooden spoon or other utensil.
Allow to cool. Once the water has cooled, remove the brace and rinse with tap water. Set aside to air dry.Soak in Vinegar
If your knee brace is exceptionally gross, there’s one more thing you can try before deciding to replace it: soaking it in white vinegar. Things like bleach and other cleaning agents are too harsh. Vinegar can safely and gently remove stains without compromising the compression of the brace.
Start by boiling a gallon of water on the stovetop. Once boiling, remove from heat and add ½ cup white vinegar. Be cautious- the odor can be strong. Gently place knee braces in the pot and allow to soak for 30 minutes, occasionally stirring.
After 30 minutes, remove braces from water and hand wash with mild detergent. Turn inside out and lay flat to air dry.Common Questions for Knee Braces for Working Out
There are always going to be questions that arise when it comes to medical devices and such. Below are some of the most common questions for knee braces for working out.Can a knee brace really help my torn meniscus?
A knee brace is not going to magically heal your torn meniscus. However, it can provide you with support and stability while you are recovering from this type of injury. When used alongside your physician’s other recommendations, a knee brace can speed up the healing process, so you recover faster. If you’ve had surgery to repair the tear, a brace can support your recovery and rehab goals.Why wear a knee brace?
A knee brace provides support to sore/injured knees, along with stability, protection, and pain relief. If you’ve recently experienced an injury or have gone through surgery, your physician may recommend that you wear a brace.Is there a difference between a knee sleeve & knee brace?
Most knee sleeves don’t provide nearly as much support as a knee brace would. In most cases, you will need a knee brace following surgery. A knee brace is much bulkier than a sleeve. Sleeves do offer compression and allow improved mobility. Therefore, sleeves are best for reducing pain and swelling in the joint.How long should you wear a knee brace?
There are several factors involved in how long you should wear a knee brace. Some of these factors are: why you wear it and the type you are wearing. Also, it’s important to note that some braces are made to be worn all the time. Therefore, it’s a good idea to discuss recommendations with your provider.Can a knee brace be worn all day?
Yes, typically you can safely wear a knee brace all day. Of course, you’ll want to discuss this with your physician to be sure.Aren’t all knee braces/sleeves the same?
No. All knee braces/sleeves are not created equal. As you shop around, you’ll discover that some are designed with specific medical purposes in mind, while others are designed to improve mobility and athletic performance.What are the different types of knee braces on the market?
As we mentioned earlier, there are several different types of knee braces with different uses in mind. The different types you will find are:RehabilitativeFunctionalUnloaderCompression
There may be other types, such as hybrids, that fall outside of these categories.Can you sleep wearing a knee brace?
Yes, if you need support/stability overnight, you can sleep with a knee brace on. In fact, there are some special pillows/forms available that you can use to support your knees while you sleep.Can you use a knee brace instead of rehab/PT?
Absolutely not. If you have experienced an injury or required surgery and your physician recommended rehab/PT, you need to do it. You should never wear a knee brace instead of participating in rehab/PT. However, you can wear it during your rehab/PT sessions.Conclusion
If you find that you are in need of the support that a knee brace offers, you’re going to find that the plethora of options are overwhelming. That is why we have done the work and created this list of the 5 best knee braces for working out.
Take a moment to consider some of the things that a knee brace can do for you:Promotes healingSupports recoveryPrevents further injuryImproves mobility
If you need a knee brace, consider trying one of these 5 first. This way, you can be sure that you can trust the quality and efficacy. Most of them come with a satisfaction guarantee, so if you try one and don’t like it, contact the manufacturer to find out what they require to issue a refund.
RELATED:Best Pre-Workout for Men: The Top 22 Pre Workouts That Work in 2022References
“23 of the Most Surprising Knee Pain Statistics (Infographics).” Thereviewal, 29 May 2019, thereviewal.com/knee-pain-statistics/#:~:text=Knee%20pain%20affects%20approximately%2025%25%20of%20adults.%20The.
“American Holistic Health Association.” American Holistic Health Association, 2019, ahha.org/selfhelp-articles/holistic-health/.
BraceAbility. “The Four Types of Knee Braces.” BraceAbility, www.braceability.com/blogs/articles/the-four-types-of-knee-braces.
“Do Compression Knee Braces Work? – TheKnowledgeBurrow.com.” Theknowledgeburrow.com, theknowledgeburrow.com/do-compression-knee-braces-work/. Accessed 5 Apr. 2022.
“Functional Knee Brace – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics.” Www.sciencedirect.com, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/functional-knee-brace.
“How Does an Unloader Knee Brace Help Relieve Pain for Osteoarthritis?” Verywell Health, www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-an-unloader-knee-brace-2552051#:~:text=An%20unloader%20knee%20brace%20is%20one%20of%20several. Accessed 5 Apr. 2022.
Mayo Clinic. “Edema – Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 2017, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/edema/symptoms-causes/syc-20366493.
—. “Obesity – Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Clinic, 15 Feb. 2020, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/obesity/symptoms-causes/syc-20375742.
—. “Osteoporosis – Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic, 2021, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/osteoporosis/symptoms-causes/syc-20351968.
NIAMS. “NIAMS Health Information on Arthritis.” National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, 11 Apr. 2019, www.niams.nih.gov/health-topics/arthritis.
“What Is a Prophylactic Knee Brace? (with Pictures).” The Health Board, www.thehealthboard.com/what-is-a-prophylactic-knee-brace.htm. Accessed 5 Apr. 2022.
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