Written by our Human Movement Specialists
Have you experienced an ACL tear or MCL injury? These injuries can feel like setbacks and throw a wrench in your activity level. However, there's a solution that keeps you moving. Whether you're gearing up for surgery, in post-op recovery, or opting for non-surgical rehabilitation, a custom knee brace is your key to maintaining an active lifestyle.
No two knees are alike, so why settle for a one-size-fits-all solution? Enter our Movement Specialists. Armed with a background in kinesiology, they deeply understand anatomy to help you find the right knee brace for you and your lifestyle. Expertly trained, they'll assess, measure, and fit you with a custom knee brace made just for you. Unlike those generic off-the-shelf options, a custom knee brace is precision-engineered to hug the contours of your leg and knee joint, ensuring unrivaled comfort and support. It's not just a brace; it's your ultimate solution for instability, pain relief, and injury prevention.
Whether you're a passionate athlete eager to get back in the game or simply longing to regain mobility in your daily routine, it's beneficial to recognize the role a custom knee brace can play in your recovery.
ACL and MCL Tears
ACL tears and MCL tears rank among the most common types of knee injuries, often stemming from sports-related mishaps, accidents, or abrupt movements that strain the knee joint. The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) maintains knee stability, while the medial collateral ligament (MCL) fortifies the inner knee. When these ligaments suffer tears or strains, the result is usually discomfort, swelling, instability, and mobility restrictions. Always seek professional evaluation for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Ligament injury symptoms
Recognizing the signs of a ligament injury is pivotal for early intervention and effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
1. Abrupt onset of pain during injury
2. Swelling and tenderness around the knee
3. Challenges bearing weight or walking
4. Sensations of knee instability or buckling
5. Audible popping or snapping noises upon injury
Experiencing any of these warrants prompt medical assessment to determine the injury's severity and devise an appropriate care plan.
Knee Brace for ACL & Other Ligament Injuries
In the realm of knee injuries, a one-size-fits-all solution can fall short. Unlike off-the-shelf counterparts, a custom knee brace is made to fit the shape of your knee, creating a comfortable fit and optimal support, especially for moderate to severe injuries like an ACL or MCL tear. It's tailored to your unique dimensions and injury specifications, making it easy to wear during activity. By stabilizing the knee joint and ensuring natural movement, the brace mitigates strain on injured ligaments and reduces pain so you can move with confidence.
However, off-the-shelf knee braces are still an option for ligament injuries. They are available in a range of supportive options (determined by the significance of damage to the ligament) but share the feature of being hinged knee braces. These braces are typically more affordable than custom options. However, both are generally covered* under extended medical plans with a prescription. They can effectively compress, reduce swelling, and offer support during daily activities and light exercise. Off-the-shelf braces can be a valuable tool in the recovery process, especially for individuals with mild to moderate ligament injuries who may not require the level of customization provided by a custom brace.
How does a custom knee brace work?
A custom knee brace functions as an external support system for the knee joint, mirroring the role of compromised ligaments. Made from lightweight yet durable materials, such as carbon fiber or aluminum, the frame is customized to your unique leg dimensions, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit. The frame offers superior support and unrestricted movement, enabling the wearer to engage in exercises with minimal restriction. The hinge provides controlled movement through a full range of motion with the option to limit flexion or extension if your healthcare professional recommends it. The adjustable straps are carefully positioned to offer focused support and hold the brace close to the leg, improving stability. These straps create a secure fit, minimizing slippage and irritation during movement.
Take the first step towards a full recovery by consulting your healthcare professional and determining if a custom knee brace is right for you. Once you have a referral, please schedule an appointment with one of our Movement Specialists. They will assess your needs, measure you, and design a personalized knee brace to suit your injury and lifestyle. With the proper support, you can move with confidence!
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