Choosing The Best Knee Brace For You | A Physical Therapist’s Guide

[@themisk.mcmahon6596]

Nobody has been able to explain the brace options to me in such detail. Appreciate it

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Themis!!!

[@SamD184]

Thank you for such a detailed explanation on these knee braces. It has always been difficult to find what I needed. Appreciate all your videos.

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Glad it was helpful Sam! 😁

[@Cosmo-Kramer]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Hi Doc, I have two questions. 1) Which type of brace would you recommend for a healing bone bruise of the femoral head which occurred recently? (No tears.) 2) Which type of brace would you recommend for a femoral head bruise that happened a long time ago and is in a state of osteonecrosis? (Again, no tears.)

[@kevinrobb86]

I use a neck tube over the knee area and then put the brace over that to help with any irritation/comfort

[@dshep7850]

Thanks so much. I really needed one that helped with the pain

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome D Shep! We hope you get some relief!

[@patvokes2715]

I bought the Shock Doctor brace. The title says" Shock Doctor Compression Knee Brace for Men & Women, Maximum Support, Adjustable Dual Hinges " however the hinges are not adjustable - looking at questions people asked unfortunately after I bought it answers included "hinges are preset" ..."hinges are not adjustable but the straps are" Re the "Donjoy" was not available in my size, medium.

[@TxDude62]

I’m not here because I have knee pain, I’m play football. I’m an offensive lineman. I’ve done my research and learned that I am a lot less likely to get injured if I have knee braces. So now I’m looking for the right ones. So i was curious of you had any input on which one would be the best?

[@Sbm800]

Thanks Dr.David that was a whole lot of information indeed!!! With many nuggets of useful information ...

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Shyla! We hope it helps!

[@monkeyslap7772]

I have a paralyzed/ atrophied inner thigh muscle which was caused by nerve damage from a bleed onto my femoral nerve. My knee gives out because I can't strengthen that muscle and it's probably going to be like that the rest of my life. It Goin on a year. I've been using a compression sleeve most of the time but when I go somewhere I use a brace that has adjusts so if my knee buckles I won't fall backwards. My ortho Dr says there's nothing I can do other than strengthen it. Nothing about the pain and grinding going on. Say I have slight arthritis and unstable ligaments because of the atrophied/ paralyzed muscle. I'm lost because I just need something that won't let me fall on my ass and can play a little golf. Do you have any suggestions on this?

[@lesainman5973]

Thank u for the info.I have bone on bone arthritis in knee with constant swelling I get prp shots about every 5 or 6 months

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Lesa! Sorry to hear that you are having this knee pain and swelling :-( we have some more great content that can help with this if you are interested. Here is a link to our playlist of videos for knee arthritis: “Knee Arthritis Pain Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1maa9YF-WmKLF7oI4VoczH We also have an outstanding knee arthritis recovery program available that is designed to help heal the knee and avoid unwanted surgeries or injections. Here is a link with more information in case you are interested in learning more: Knee Arthritis Recovery Program The Knee Arthritis Recovery Program is designed to help people have the best chance of avoiding unnecessary surgery, injections, or having to rely on pain medications. This course guides people through exercises and stretches that target key body parts that have the greatest potential to prevent or help with knee conditions like osteoarthritis, meniscus tears, ligament injuries, cartilage problems and other knee conditions. To learn more please click this link: epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/knee-arthritis-recovery-program

[@Moonshadow1979]

I am guessing I would fall under the first category because I had ACL surgery 12 years ago so the ACL is sewn up. I just have pain now. I can't go without a brace when I use my elliptical. I can only use it for 15 minutes, three times a week, and slowly. I always have a knee brace with me for something as simple as grocery shopping to something more complex like a 5 hour airplane flight and walking all over on a vacation such as all over Hollywood/L.A. Something to help alleviate the pain so I can keep going throughout the entire day, go to bed, wake up, not feel massive amounts of pain, and keep on going. I now ice my knee at least once a day for 15 minutes. I've been through 2 knee braces. Amazon is overwhelming and there are always bad reviews. I don't want to waste money and not be able to return the brace if it seriously sucks. I used Sleeve Stars but it didn't last long. It's sad. I couldn't get it over my pants and I struggled to keep it on under them. I need to wear it with whatever I'm wearing and in any kind of weather (hot or cold). Sadly they have straps and Velcro and the Velcro wore out the fabric along the back of the brace and it looks brand new but it doesn't even stay on me anymore. I'm currently in PT for another issue but my physical therapist noticed my knee brace was constantly falling off. She looked it over and saw where the fabric was worn down by the Velcro. I think the one prior was by Mullen or something like that and I remember it not being pleasant and easier plus it is "one size fits most" and I have thicker, meatier thighs so I know it wouldn't work now. Your video really did help me better understand things. It looks like I might simply need a compression sleeve.

[@suziebond06]

I very much appreciate these videos. Have you seen the silicone sports towels that you moisten? I’ve been wetting one with cold water wrap it around my knee, holy what a game changer, the towel is smooth and sooo soothing non irritating to the skin. I wear it under my knee brace. Thanks again for these!!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Suzanne! We're so glad you've been able to put our videos to use. Thanks for sharing about the silicone sports towel! We're glad you found relief!!!

[@danilove8127]

Hi I have no cartlige and meniscus just bone on bone which one is best for me?

[@andreearoxanadorcu6860]

Thanks for the video! Can you please tell me what should I use in case I have multiple ligaments (LCL, ACL and PCL) and peroneal nerve injury (severe foot drop) following a knee dislocation? I am afraid that a compressive brace will damage my nerve further. Thanks a lot!

[@sgtcojonez]

Thank you so much. Can knee braces with brackets be used for running or working out in general (squats, deadlifts, etc.)?

[@DanielPerez-ix3dl]

Good video, I have a tear &now I know which one to buy. Going to follow you doc💯I just bought one from Amazon, the wrong one b4 I saw this video😂

[@robertbrown8425]

What brace is good for use in Europe chlorine pools for aerobic exercise swimmers please?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Robert, Choosing a brace is quite personal, and we don’t recommend specific brands because, from our experience, most braces can be uncomfortable and may slide down the leg over time. We suggest trying a few different braces from a store with a good return policy. This way, you can test various options to find the one that works best for you and return the ones that don't. We do have a knee brace help playlist you might find helpful. You can access it here: : “Knee Brace Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mYfCVO5HJsDWdxVDUc3Jbf We wish you all the best in your road to recovery!

[@sophieoshaughnessy9469]

You are such a good resource and so clear! I am 7 months s/p lateral meniscal repair (traumatic bucket handle tear), had the heavy duty hinge brace for 10weeks and now getting back to sports. No probs w golf and cycling. What still brings on pain is lateral movement in racket sports. What do you recommend for brace and exercise this many months out?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Thank you Sophie!!! It's great to hear that you're back to golf and cycling. WOOOHOOOO!!!! It sounds like you've got to get your foot and glute strength up to be able to tolerate the lateral movements in racket sports. Those movements just need LOTS of stability from above and below the knee joint.

[@katebc9148]

Thank you for sharing your expertise. This video has been very helpful.

[@tonysandoval5819]

Hello Dr. David. If someone has patellofemoral pain syndrome where the patella is being pressed or compressed against the femur, can you still or should you still wear a knee brace that could potentially put more pressure on the knee cap. I noticed that even a knee brace with a opening for the patella feels like it's putting some pressure on the patella. What your recommendation for this? Thank you

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Tony! Great question! It depends on how irritated the knee is. In the case you described, it sounds like that knee is angry and needs to calm down. Given some time and rest, then the brace should be more tolerable to wear. The opening for the patella on the brace might not make much difference. Of course, we're just talking about the surface level problem. The deeper problem is "what is increasing the pressure between the knee cap and femur?" Solving that problem should provide a longer term solution.

[@tonysandoval5819]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thank you Dr. David

[@sachinmenkudle1279]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy same problem with me too since 9 months.. Nothing is helping..

[@marknowacki3797]

Doctor: Which type of brace would you recommend for outer knee pain (sudden injury from wrestling)

[@045roo]

Do you think I need a size up even if I need it for an hour of sports? Maybe more compression is better in this case?

[@thelivingmonk2889]

What kind of brace for quadriceps tendinopathy?

[@andrewpartida1427]

what about a brace for patella dislocation trying to play soccer again

[@reggiedeleon2007]

Hi Doc I wear even I sleep is that ok because I try to sleep without knee brace when I wake I got pain so I wear whole day 24/7 is that ok?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Reggie, as long as it is not causing issues with your skin like rashes, redness, or wounds then it should be okay to wear all day.

[@reggiedeleon2007]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Thank you Doc I wish you here in Australia

[@wem-c9f]

The sleeve knee brace I have is rather stretchy and compresses very well. I got worried about it sliding but fortunately it does not. Thanks Dr for this video. :)

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Aim2B TOL!!! That's great that your knee sleeve compresses well and stays put. They usually loose their elasticity after months of use. Best of luck to you getting your knees better!

[@tn_balta8445]

I’ve dislocated my knee twice but I’ve never been told I’ve had a tear but Ik my ligaments and joints are weak and my knee pops and kinda moves sometimes so I’m not sure and I’ve been doing knee workouts but I want to start lifting but idk if I should get a knee brace with inserts or not but I think I should. Can you please help me

[@bartowsking]

I have something similar. I have lateral tilt in patellafomeral joint. So basically my knee also is weak and kinda slides around. I get deep achy pain sometimes especially if I move it even slightly wrong, or after work outs. I got a Nike knee sleeve with an open kneecap a few months ago. I would recommend that. It still restricts movement enough to prevent a huge wrong movement but also flexible enough to work out in them. I can bend the completely if I want to basically, but the co pression and having a sleeve obviously makes it harder. Also the kneecap hole is padded so if I need to kneel, it protects a little. Only thing is it slides down a bit so I have to adjust between a couple of sets or so but overall it's the most comfortable but effective one I've used thus far. Hope that helps.

[@EliseGeiman]

I just found out I have bursitis. I had a cortisone shot on the first visit and had an x-ray. Two weeks alter I had a MRI done. The doctor told me he only has the brace with a hole. I need one with a padding. I have a wood stove, and I go on my knees to fill the wood stove. I don't know what type of brace would work for me. Would you know which one would work for me? Thanks

[@rosaliashibata1373]

This video was very useful resource, well explained in details. I wish my physiotherapist be like that😑😑

[@criba74]

Hi! I've just came across your videos and i love them! A question for this one, please: is there any brace for my patellofemoral syndrome and i didn't get it? I'm searching one for my training exercises and i really don't know which one is good for my problem... Thank you so much for your answer!!!

[@hannazurek6932]

What do you think about "single hinged" brace for preventing ACL torn? I'm a horse rider torn my ACL some time ago, and looking for a brace. I'm afraid all those with significant metal stuff on the inside will hurt my leg while riding, and those without won't protect the acl.

[@andyukh1625]

I have to say , the Shock Doctor Hinged knee brace is outstanding! Had two knee operations because of football injuries and this product is super stable. In my 50’s now had my injuries in my 20’s and again in my 30’s, after the second one starting wearing the Shock Doctor and it gave me so much confidence in terms of range of motion. I drive a truck , always in and out turning sharply , on and off the rear from a height and it keeps the knee in place. My advice is the same as the vlog, try many and then make your decision!

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Andy! Thank you for sharing your experience with us and giving the rest of our KZbin community feedback about the knee brace that worked for you! We are stoked to hear that the Shock Doctor has met your needs. We are not sure if you still deal with stability and strength issues when it comes to your knees but we feel that the following program might interest you and might be a perfect fit for you, The "Failed Knee Replacement Recovery Program" is a comprehensive program designed to help people with treatment strategies that are effective at helping calm down an irritated knee, then guiding you to treat the root problem that sets up knee arthritis and continues to cause knee pain in a replaced knee joint. This program works even for a revised knee replacement. You can learn more about it here: www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/failed-knee-replacement-recovery/ Please let us know what we can do to help! 🙌

[@marilopez3332]

Hi! How about OA unloader braces? Are they effective or is better to have therapy to align knee?? Do the brace does work, how much adjustment is required? I really appreciate your reviews on medical supply aides.

[@richardparis8738]

I definitely have some type of tear

[@christinahauzer3565]

Hi! I love these informative videos! I wanted to purchase the Shock Doctor knee brace, but my measurement is an extra small, 11.5 inches. Sadly, the online shop does not sell that size. Do you have a different suggestion for a smaller knee? Best Regards and thanks!

[@Mambaross24]

This was very helpful thank you!! Quick question.. would which version of the Shock Doctor knee brace would you recommend for a partially torn, quad tendon that did not require surgery but is a little unstable versus the other knee? I’m a basketball player that’s went through intense physical therapy, and I’m currently back to full activity of lifting running jump, roping, and things of that nature but I just need something that’s going to be perfect for protection when I get back to fully active participation in basketball mainly 1 to 2 days a week of basketball supplemented with 4 to 5 days of working out at the gym. Thank you in advance 🙏🏾

[@willwatlington6750]

Can a tear be self diagnosed? My knee just feels kinda weird, unstable, no swelling…

[@ernanipacana7525]

How about patella straps? When is it advisable to wear them?

[@spectacularangular637]

Thank you for the video. Where’s your post meniscus surgery video? if any~

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Spectacular, you're welcome! We have a whole playlist for knee meniscus surgery help. You can check it out here: “Knee Meniscus Surgery Help” kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1maIj5ge4oSQTqVs3RzwpqwV We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@hakimh9866]

Thank you for all the information you have shared.. btw, just to be confirm, i got chondromalacia pattela, so what i need is the second type of knee brace right?

[@renahamilton6712]

I have a static Muscle Strain In my M CL and my LC By my knee right knee I was playing basketball I am past the age of playing basketball and I did one of my moves back when I was a young girl and I landed on My right leg I have already had 6 weeks of physical therapy they didn't do nothing really but just give me warm mental hot packs for 6 weeks and get my leg a rubbed down I do have a brace that I purchased but I believe it's The wrong type from my life soreness and I was told I have arthread is inside my knee as well What please if you could tell me what type of exercises that I could do here at home to strengthen my leg again

[@colinw732]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@helenalexandropoulou5014]

Hello my dear doctor. I follow your videos about knee and i would like to ask. I live in an island in Greece, and my house is on a hill, I like walking and i have to do walking actually but walking uphill and downhill hurts me a lot. I am 60 years old and i have knee cartilage problem. Is there any advice to walk without be worse!!! These braces are propriate to wear them walking??? thank you so much

[@nyabuokveronica4622]

My knee moves sideways and the braces that are available here now are with the hole is it good for Acl -tear

[@Olivier-ci9tg]

I think i tore my acl 3 years ago, do you think i can still recover wearing this brace? (Im healthy and 22 years of age) Also, thanks for sharing your knowledge Brother!

[@mooleymooley763]

What if i have crepitus which knee brace will you recommend?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Mooley Mooley! Great question...it depends on pain. If the crepitus is painless, then no brace is recommended. There isn't a brace to our knowledge that can reduce crepitus. If there is pain with the crepitus, then follow the advice in the video for the more simple brace without hinges.

[@DavidThomas-bu7oo]

Do you find that bracing over is helpful for an MCL injury?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey David! Absolutely yes!!! Using a brace is vital to heal an MCL injury! Have you seen this video? “How To Tell If You Have An MCL Injury In Your Knee” kzbin.info/www/bejne/baWQnHWvmr2Jrck

[@searchingfortruth1556]

Would the braces with the hinge work for IT Band injuries? Whenever i run for long periods the outter side of my knee hurts.

[@joe-5D]

hey really appreaciate the videos. I am wondering if the 2nd type of brace (for tears) is good if i dont fully have flexibility walking just yet. Will it make it so i can walk without having to do a complete leg walking motion or should i not wear a brace until i have full flexibility. (Coming up on 3 weeks and ive made amazing improvements but i dont like walking much at all because my knee gets fatigued easily and i dont want that to ruin things for me.)

[@veerpalkaur1632]

What kind of knee brace is good for condromalacia patella grade 2???

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Veerpal! Sorry to hear you're dealing with chondromalacia patella syndrome, We can only the effect it had on you. As explained in the video, we would recommend a compression knee brace if don't happen to have a meniscus tear or arthritis. Here are some braces you could consider investing in: amzn.to/3wTMeDS amzn.to/2RxTh4U Also, here's a playlist that could help with the issue you are dealing with: "Knock Knee Pain Help" kzbin.info/aero/PLJVIPiFvv1mbBL_mKzTcsYAauVI2XRxk5 In the case you are interested in a more comprehensive approach we would like to refer you to our meniscus recovery program - as some of the issues are similar, you can learn more about it here: "Knee Meniscus Recovery Program" The Knee Meniscus Recovery Program is designed to help people have the best chance of avoiding unnecessary surgery, injections, or having to rely on pain medications. This course guides people through exercises and stretches that target key body parts that have the greatest potential to prevent or help with meniscus tears or trouble after meniscus surgery. www.epmanualphysicaltherapy.com/meniscus-recovery We hope to hear from you soon! 🙌

[@michellewilliams5226]

Hey I hurt knee on the bus it hit the back of the seat. Its painful and swollen what brace do I need ?

[@jimwest850]

You personally test everyone of them knee braces and random through a battery of tests OK?

[@annettefrancis8851]

Doctor mine knee is not straight again because of the joint pant what braces u a think a need

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Annette Francis! Is the knee bent slightly or is it going sideways? If the knee is bent side ways (medical term for that is valgus or varus) then we have to figure out if it's because of arthritis or a torn ligament. If it's a ligament problem, then the brace with the hinges would be better for you. If it's bent because it won't fully extend or straighten out, then it's less likely a ligament problem and it would be better to get the brace without hinges. In all of the scenarios, using the brace would be just for pain relief...not to solve the long term problem. You might need to be seen by a knee specialist to determine a full treatment plan to help your knee.

[@gary6463]

Good helpful video ..I'm new to your channel. Thank you for making this video

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hi Gary! You are welcome! Thank you so much for being part of our community.😃 We are thrilled that the information that we have shared has been helpful. We wish you all the best! We'd love to hear how you are doing as you progress.🙌 Please take care!

[@gary6463]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy Hi Dr.I'm so glad I watched this video .I have a tiny bit of Arthritis hampering my right knee. would you recommend the Copper Fit knee sleeve ? Or The Copper Fit Ice knee sleeve for my knee? Thank you Dr.David

[@sumathivishwanathan7404]

Very useful information

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Thank you Sumathi!!!

[@Gforu81]

Great video. I was prescribed a tscope premier hinge brace for nondisplaced patella fracture 😢 I had to buy the brace on my own because it was going to be $750 @ the doctor. The only problem with needing to order it on my own is I don't have a professional fitting it on me and I'm just guessing watching you tube ..any advice on this? Can I go to a nearby PT ?🤷

[@cptalkies7562]

Without tear legament injury can i use hinges brace ?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey CP, you can use any brace that is comfortable for you. However, it is important to maintain the musculature that provides stability to your joints. With hinged braces, these muscles will not be used as effectively as they should be. Hope this helps!

[@cptalkies7562]

@@epmanualphysicaltherapy thank you for the response , so i can use hingged brace while cycling and workouts ?

[@lanceramirez5511]

Hi Dr. I had a partial meniscectomy, 60% removed. I was given a single hinge brace to use. Does it matter if it's double hinge or what side the hinge is on?

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Great question Lance! This depends on you. You'll have to go through trial and error to find out what helps you most. There is no solid research to tell us what is best for knee braces. We often recommend the double hinge with hinges on both sides like this one: amzn.to/3FSA98E

[@renahamilton6712]

Thank you

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Rena!

[@siakoahmed6840]

Thanks man.

[@sandradepaz3438]

can i wear knee brace over my pants?

[@dinasabet6760]

Thanks a lot very helps you information

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You’re welcome Dina!

[@yvettemoore7844]

Where are you located

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Yvette! We are located in El Paso, TX :-)

[@fadeysuleiman6423]

What sporting goods store is that ?? Name please & thank you

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Fadey! It was Dick's Sporting Goods :-)

[@fadeysuleiman6423]

El Paso Manual Physical Therapy thanks a ton! Perfect I had acl / meniscus surgery a year ago and I’m expected to do this huge phyical test when I’m released to try to run. And I want to make sure I get the best quality and brand for such running and sprinting and shuffling through cones out there. I heard of Donjoy, what do you recommend from an orthopedic standpoint and I’m afraid of re-injury and injuring my other knee due to this huge exam for my career basically. 🤦🏼‍♂️ please help, the unknown is mind boggling as you see lol

[@florrichardson2361]

Thank you so much

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You're welcome Flor Richardson!!!

[@__-v-__]

Big thanks

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

You’re welcome V!!!

[@richardparis8738]

I think I'll go with Shock Doctor

[@2bond007]

I got the Copperfit at Costco and it works great!!

[@halimawanjiku6304]

I need the braces and l am big

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Halima, here are the links for the knee braces we mention in the video: Compression knee brace - for swelling without any tears - arthritis amzn.to/3wTMeDS amzn.to/2RxTh4U Hinged knee brace - for ACL, MCL, Meniscus Injuries amzn.to/3s79jPT amzn.to/2RAP3cV

[@ethan-youtubetips445]

Great explanation. Thumbs up from a fellow creator 😅

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey thanks Ethan! I just checked out your channel and subscribed. Great home page video! You're voice is amazing!

[@kfergus3662]

I’ve got no relief from any of them, just a waste of money

[@ingrida.r.1533]

braces made in China itch on my knee

[@pseudonymman9382]

bollix

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Pseudonymman9382, These are the methods we've found to be best when buying and using knee braces. We would love to hear what your preferences are when it comes to this.

[@edwinpineda3695]

Thank you

[@epmanualphysicaltherapy]

Hey Edwin, You are so welcome! 🙌