This article is one of a series covering back pain — causes, symptoms, and the treatments we use at Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. For the complete overview, see the full guide:
→ Back Pain Treatment in New York City — The Complete Guide
Knee braces should be worn when you have some sort of pain in the knee, or in sports when you want to prevent an injury. Braces are made from a combination of metal, foam, plastic, and elastic material/straps. We regularly help people with knee problems here at our Manhatten practice with knee braces and of course provide proper instruction how to get the best out of them for knee support.
There are different kinds of knee braces, and each is used for different reasons.
Functional braces give support to knees that have been injured in the past. Athletes usually wear them after a major injury has healed. They stabilize the knee and control motion so that there is not another injury.
Rehabilitative braces are used for a few weeks right after injury or surgery. They keep the knee stable but still allow limited movement while it is healing.
Unloader braces are designed to relieve pain in people who have arthritis in their knees. They shift the weight (“unload” it) from the damaged area of the knee to a stronger area.
Prophylactic braces are designed to protect knees from injuries during contact sports such as football. Research has not proven that they work, but studies are ongoing.
Knee sleeves are not braces, but they are a very common type of knee support. They provide compression around the knee joint. This supports the knee, controls pain and swelling.
How do I get a knee brace?
At Back and Body here in Manhatten, we will let you know if you need a knee brace. We will recommend what type you should have based on your injury.
How do I care for my knee brace?
Knee braces can get damaged during normal use. You should check your brace frequently for wear and tear. Cleaning with soap and water is good for the brace fabric.
If you have any questions on our treatment options in New York, please contact us, we would be happy to help you and see what we can do for you.
In pain? Want a tune up? Call us today (908) 325 – 3000. We can treat and help you.
Dr Shan Sivendra MD is the founder and medical director of Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. A board-certified medical doctor, certified acupuncturist, and Director of House Physicians at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Dr Sivendra has been practicing in New York since 1995.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center (affiliated with Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and received the Resident Research Award for three consecutive years.
Dr Sivendra has a background spanning internal medicine, pain management, and conservative spine rehabilitation, and was licensed in both the US and the UK.
At Back and Body Medical, he leads a multidisciplinary team of chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists dedicated to helping patients recover from pain without surgery or unnecessary medication.
Further Reading: Back Pain