WHEN ARE KNEE PADS USEFUL?

Does wearing knee pads help prevent injuries? For people suffering from knee pain, regardless of gender, knee pads have become a common treatment option. They are cheap, easy to find, and comfortable to wear. But when will these devices really be useful?

According to Piedmont plastic surgeon Dr. Michael Bell, there are two main reasons for wearing knee pads:Structural support，Relieve pain.

Knee pads for structural support

Doctors usually prescribe knee braces for patients with ACL tears or some type of knee injury. Knee pads can provide extra support during the recovery process.

The three types of knee pads that provide structural support include:

Functional braces. Studies have shown that these types of braces can provide some protection and extra stability to the knee after a knee injury.

Rehabilitation orthotics. These limit the left and right movement and up and down movement of the knee when it is healed after an injury or surgery.

Prevent braces. These are designed to prevent injury to the knee during contact sports.

The decision to wear structural support for the knee should be based on several factors, including:

Which ligaments are injured

What rehabilitation treatments have you completed or planned

Sports you participate in

It is always wise to consult your doctor about which knee brace is right for you.

"Knee pads can help an athlete through an injury period by providing extra support, allowing him or her to continue sports activities," Dr. Bell said. "Today, many football players wear knee pads to prevent injuries. Because of the sharp turns and lateral movements of this sport, football players put extra pressure on the knees. All these sports move your bones and ligaments in unnatural ways. Facts. . It proves that knee pads are a wise preventive measure in this particular sport."

Knee pads for pain relief

Others may feel comfortable and at ease when wearing knee pads, especially those who have osteoarthritis or have chronic pain due to previous injuries.

"There is no medical research showing that knee pads can cure knee problems, but if it helps relieve symptoms and give you peace of mind, then it's okay," he said.

A common knee brace used to relieve arthritis pain is an unloader brace. These are designed to "unload" the stress caused by inner knee arthritis.

This type of bracket is custom designed and made of molded plastic, foam, and steel pillars to limit lateral movement. It is designed to exert three pressure points on the femur, forcing the knee to bend away from the painful area.

Knee pads and sports

"Generally speaking, knee pads should not be used as an excuse to avoid exercise," Dr. Bell warned. "Unless your doctor asks you to rest completely, regular stretching and at least moderate exercise will usually help strengthen the leg muscles and thus help support the knee."

He also pointed out the importance of maintaining an ideal weight, because obesity can significantly increase the pressure on all joints, including the knees. Whether before or after strenuous exercise, daily stretching is equally important.