Hinged Knee Brace, Hinge Support, Neoprene, Adjustable

Hinged Knee Braces

We carry an extensive collection of hinged knee braces from over 40 different manufacturers all designed to provide support and control of both medial and lateral movement which occurs during many types of sports-related injuries.  These products are made from both neoprene and alternative skin-friendly materials for individuals with skin sensitivities.  The hinge bar, in most of our knee brace models, is usually made of aluminum to produce a lightweight, strong design.  To enhance the adjustable nature of some of our knee brace models, some manufacturers have made them out of durable plastics that allow them to mold to the individual contours of any shape of leg and will fit more overweight individuals easier.

What Type Of Hinge Knee Brace Is Appropriate For My Condition?
 

Most of our knee brace designs have a polycentric hinge which is a basic style that mimics the natural movement of the knee joint fairly accurately.  It's economical and provides good support.  A select few have polycentric hinge designs which are manufactured to match the natural roll and slide of a knee joint.  They do not "piston" in place and therefore do not tend to slide down the leg as much as the standard type of hinged knee brace.  Most of our models will have additional thigh and calf straps which compress the soft tissues above and below the knee to help keep the brace properly positioned especially during sports activities.  The straps are stitched into the neoprene and tighten in place with D rings on the side made of durable plastics.  A Slip-on provides a better more exact fit while a wraparound is usually easier to put, but generally does not provide the same degree of compression needed for athletic participation.  Many of our hinged knee support models also have a removable patella buttress to also aid conditions that produce kneecap pain or instability.

The Hinged Knee Brace Checklist: 

This checklist can be used to help in the decision making progress for choosing an adequate knee brace.  In all situations though we advise customers to seek the advice of their physician or other healthcare provider who knows their case and understands the complexities of their particular knee injury.

1)  What materials are used in the construction of the brace?  Most are made out of neoprene (some are even perforated to breathe better) or a neoprene-free material.  Some knitted brands also have natural latex as part of their construction.

2)  Is the brace a slip-on or a wraparound design?  Many older folks may benefit more from a wraparound for easier application while most orthopedic conditions and use in sports activities would do better with a slip-on (pull-up) for a more exact fit.

3)  Does the knee also produce pain around the kneecap?  Hinged knee braces with a patella donut may help provide additional support to improve tracking with walking and running activities.

4)  How does the knee brace stay in place?  Usually some series of thigh and lower leg straps are employed to compress the thigh and lower leg to help it stay up on the leg.  Some designs features straps that hook right onto the hinge bars themselves which can enhance the level of support provided especially with cutting a pivoting athletic moves.

5)  Does the hinge have a basic design or can you set the range of motion?  Most will have a standard hinge.  Some will have the ability to set the range of motion so that the knee does not bend or extend all the way.  Your physician is the one best suited to decide whether you need to restrict the range of motion of the knee joint and this question should be directed to them for further consideration. 

6)  Has the physician recommended a particular brace for your injury?  An orthopedic surgeon is an indispensable resource of knowledge, expertise, and experience.  Their  recommendation should be followed, and although we carry the largest online selection of hinged knee brace designs available, there recommendation is part of a treatment plan to help you recover from your injury to the best of your ability - stick with their recommendation.  There's a reason behind it!

This guide can be helpful when considering the many different styles of hinge knee brace products offered at DME-Direct.com.  Our staff of physical therapists and certified athletic trainers have used all of these products on patients and athletes alike - we think you'll be more impressed with their quality compared with inferior brands found in many retailers.  DME-Direct.com is a distributor to hospitals, physician groups, suppliers, O&P shops, chiropractors, physical therapists, and our troops overseas.  Reach us Monday - Friday 7:00 - 5:00 PST or 24 hours on the web.