How to Find the Best Basketball Knee Brace
January 31, 2019
Have you ever paid close attention to professional basketball players’ knees? We don’t blame you if you haven’t, but if you have, you’d be able to see that most players wear some kind of knee protection and support – one of the most common is a knee brace.
If you want to protect your knees and enjoy playing basketball in a safe way, it’s crucial to find the perfect basketball knee brace. But picking the right one might turn into a problem if you don't know what to look for, so we’ve compiled a few tips for just that.
Here is exactly how to find the correct knee brace for basketball:
When to Use Basketball Knee Braces
The way you use basketball knee braces is completely different from the way you use sleeves and pads. Their purpose is to protect the knee from basketball-related injuries and help it heal.
Knee braces have sewn-in support and increase the stability of your knees and prevent hyperextension that can cause damage to your knee. Knee braces are often prescribed to basketball players after they’ve suffered a knee injury.
Choosing the Appropriate Type
Knee braces come in several types. Each of the following ones comes with unique features and benefits.
Closed or Open Patella Braces
Some basketball knee braces come equipped with a hole in the center. The ones with the hole are called open patella and the ones without it are called closed patella braces. They provide different benefits to the wearer.
Closed patella braces are designed to provide additional support by equally distributing pressure to the entire knee area. Open patella braces are designed to deliver pressure relief to the knee joint and they provide extra knee cap support during specific movements.
Hinged Knee Braces
These braces are often used by basketball enthusiasts and pros who’ve had knee surgery. They provide a significant level of support and protection and are designed to help your knee heal while allowing you to enjoy your favorite sport. Hinged knee braces will help your knee and keep it properly aligned when it bends, thus preventing injuries.
Consult your doctor if you are considering getting one. The scope of your injury will dictate whether you need a soft or a more rigid one.
Wraparound Knee Braces
These braces provide less support than hinged knee braces. They are designed to help you work your way through mild or moderate knee pain. Since they are not as bulky and heavy as the hinged ones, you will be able to put them on and take them off very easily. They are usually the best option if you find that an ordinary knee sleeve doesn’t provide enough support.
How to Pick the Perfect Knee Brace for Basketball
A knee brace is a must-have if you’ve had a knee injury in your lifetime. The most important thing to do is consult your doctor. When selecting your ideal knee brace it’s crucial to consider your type of knee injury and your preferred and recommended knee movement.
Take Your Knee Measurements
To pick a perfectly sized knee brace, measure the distance around the knee, above the knee (thigh), and below your knee (calf). Compare the measurements to the knee brace manufacturer guide to get a properly sized knee brace.
Knowing these facts will help you find the correct knee brace so that you can enjoy playing basketball pain-free. Be sure to browse through our selection of advanced basketball knee braces today!
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