Recovering from ACL surgery and returning to sports requires proper knee support to prevent re-injury and enhance stability. An orthosis can play an important role in this procedure. It provides alignment, compression, and controlled movement. These knee braces help in minimizing the risk of complications. Here, we will explore the various types of knee braces, risks, and benefits. And which is the best knee brace for sports after ACL surgery?
There are different types of knee braces designed for post-ACL surgery recovery. It includes hinged braces for maximum support, compression sleeves for circulation or mild stability, and adjustable post-op braces for proper movement. Selecting the right knee brace after ACL surgery is an important decision. Because with the help of the best knee brace for sports can provide the necessary support to help athletes perform their best.
What is ACL Surgery?
Anterior cruciate ligament injuries are the most common and tough injuries in athletes. The ACL is a main ligament in the knee. And it is responsible for stabilizing the joint and facilitating movement. When this connective tissue is torn or broken, it often requires surgical intervention to restore its functionality. After ACL surgery, it requires a combination of physical therapy, rehabilitation and sometimes, the use of supportive devices, such as knee braces.
Types of the Best Knee Brace for Sports After ACL Surgery
Knee protectors come in lots of types, shapes and sizes. They support the knee and take pressure off the joint. A healthcare professional can suggest the right type of brace. These key features of the Knee brace help athletes post-ACL surgery. Here you can see:
- Functional or Derotational Braces: When a patient has recovered the full range of motion then functional braces are used. These braces ensure constancy for post-operative or ACL-deficient knees. Players commonly use these braces when returning to sports after the injury.
- Rehabilitative Braces: These brackets allow for controlled motion of the injured limb immediately after the medical surgery. They help in the early stages of recovery when the new ligament is healing and most weak to rupture.
- Prophylactic Supporters: These are prepared to prevent or reduce the severity of knee injuries during high-risk sporting events. Collegiate and professional football linemen mostly wear these braces.
- Unloader Braces: These are a special type of knee brace used to provide pain relief for persons who suffer from knee arthritis. Knee braces of this type unload stress from the affected joint by placing pressure on the opposite side.
Top Knee Brace for Sports After ACL Surgery
Here are the top 5 knee braces for sports after surgery. So, check it out:
- DonJoy Armor Knee Brace with ForcePoint Hinge
- Bauerfeind GenuTrain S
- McDavid 429X Hinged Knee Brace
- Mueller Hg80 Sports Knee Brace
- KGOI Elite ACL Knee Brace
Importance of Knee Braces: Post ACL Surgery
After the surgeon performs ACL surgery, the patient must focus on their health and recovery. They should ensure that the knee returns to its proper functioning. You have to use a good orthosis for post-ACL surgery knee support. Most people use knee sleeves, but there is no comparison of knee sleeve with knee braces; braces are more comfortable and help patients for speedy recovery.
These braces are not a substitute for physical therapy. They serve as an important accessory to rehabilitation.
How do these Knee Braces Help in Rehabilitation?
Nowadays, various props are designed to provide support, steadiness and protection to the knee joint after surgery. These methods give benefits to athletes who are returning to high-intensity sports after an ACL tear. They can provide additional security to the knee. And reduce the risk of recurrence during the rehabilitation process.
- Stability: The knee joint can be effectively stable by using properly fitting braces in the knee. It limits the amount of movement during physical activity and prevents excessive rotational movement.
- Safeguard: Due to their ability to absorb shocks, these braces serve as a barrier of protection. In some games, athletes face a high risk of blunt force trauma or sudden twisting movements.
- Confidence: These supporters can give participants more confidence when returning to the game. With the help of these braces, athletes can push harder during training and competition.
Benefits of Knee Braces After ACL Surgery
Below are the list major advantages of using knee braces in sports:
- Prevention from Injury: Alleviates the knee joint, reducing the risk of ligament damages, such as, MCL, ACL, or cartilage tears. It also helps during powerful activities.
- Post-Injury Support: It provides compression and stability after an injury or surgery. And also helps in protecting healing tissues and reduces the chances of re-injury.
- Improved Confidence: Most sports people often feel more secure knowing they have added support, which can boost performance. It is beneficial for those returning to sport after an injury.
- Enhanced Joint Function: May help with tracking or chronic knee instability. Improves alignment and motion control, especially in dynamic movements like cutting, jumping, or pivoting.
Risks and Considerations Associated with Knee Bracing
It also comes with various risk factors. These are:
- Overdependence on a knee brace can lead to less use of the quads and hams muscles. This can be a dangerous sign for knee stability.
- Wearing a brace long-term may harm your sense of joint position.
- Bracing may lead to a more careful approach to movement and rehab.
- Wearing it for a long time can cause roughness, rashes and skin problems.
Conclusion
If you want to recover quickly it is necessary to choose the best knee brace after ACL surgery. Each of the supports comes with different benefits. It depends on the level of support required, the type and the phase of regaining.
While selecting a knee brace, you should always consider comfort and fit. A healthcare professional can suggest a perfect brace for your healing process.
