Written by our Human Movement Specialists
You might be on the Paris everyBODY site looking at the different knee brace options. You may be asking, “Why do some braces have hinges and others don’t?” There are a few reasons for that. But first...
What do you mean by hinge exactly?
When we say "hinges" we are referring to rigid pieces of metal inside the knee brace. This un-malleable metal has been included to provide more support to the knee joint. Usually this is to help with knee instability. The hinges may be enclosed in fabric as in many off-the-shelf options or part of the frame like a lot of custom knee braces.
Why would I need a hinge in my knee brace?
One of the main uses of a hinge in knee braces is to help support the Medial Cruciate Ligament (MCL) and the Lateral Cruciate Ligament (LCL). These two ligaments sit on each side of the knee and help prevent the knee from collapsing. These ligaments can be injured or torn. The hinged knee brace can help with supporting these ligaments due to their location. The hinges are located where the MCL and LCL are in the knee. This allows the hinges to provide maximal support.
Another reason for hinges in the knee brace is to provide support for mild osteoarthritis. When arthritis is present in the knee, instability typically follows. This instability can cause a distrust in the knee or a lack of confidence while walking, running, or doing any physical activity. However, with the help of a hinged knee brace, regaining the trust in the knee can be accomplished. Those hinges sit against the knee to provide support and prevent excessive loss of control.
How can we help?
Call or visit one of our Paris everyBODY locations and chat with one of our Human Movement Specialists to find out what type of hinged knee brace is right for you. Whether it's an off-the-shelf or custom knee brace, our goal is to get you back doing what you love, pain free!
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