When Is a Knee Brace Helpful, and When Is It Not?

Knee braces are a common solution for knee pain, instability, or injury. But while they can provide support in some situations, they are not always the right option. 

Our physicians at Specialty Orthopaedics in Harrison, New York, have trained at some of the top orthopedic hospitals in the country. They specialize in non-surgical and advanced surgical treatments and help patients throughout Westchester County find the best remedies (including knee braces).

How Knee Braces Support the Knee

Knee braces can help by adding stability and lowering the risk of further injury. They work in different ways, like limiting certain movements, redistributing weight, or providing gentle compression to reduce swelling. 

Whether or not a brace is right for you depends on your specific injury or condition. Some situations where a brace might help include:

• Giving extra support after a ligament injury, like an ACL or MCL tear
• Relieving pain from osteoarthritis by taking pressure off damaged cartilage
• Helping keep the knee stable after surgery
• Protecting athletes as they ease back into activity after an injury

Braces are most useful when they provide short-term support during recovery or for people dealing with mild knee instability who want to stay active.

When a Knee Brace Might Not Be the Best Solution

Knee braces can be helpful, but they are not a replacement for treatment or strengthening exercises. In some cases, they may not be the best option, such as:

• Weak muscles: Relying on a brace too much can make the surrounding muscles weaker over time.
• Severe ligament damage: A fully torn ligament will not heal with a brace alone – physical therapy or surgery may be needed.
• Restricted movement: Some braces limit mobility, which can be a problem for certain activities or sports.
• Pain from other issues: Knee pain isn’t always caused by a knee problem. If the pain comes from the hip or nerves, a brace may not help.

How to Know if a Knee Brace Is Right for You

The only way to really know if a brace is right for you is to talk to a medical professional. Our team at Specialty Orthopaedics will evaluate your knee health and treatment options, including physical therapy, bracing, or surgical solutions. Call 914-686-0111 to schedule a consultation at our office in Harrison, NY.