Choosing The Best Knee Brace For Meniscus Injury
Have you suffered from a meniscus injury or bursitis?
A knee orthosis, or brace, can help support an injured knee, but it isn't a treatment on its own. See a doctor to diagnose the injury and plan treatment.
However, there are many knee braces available that cater for a wide variety of injuries.
Finding specific knee brace for a meniscus injury can be a bit confusing, but you needn’t worry anymore.
I've found a knee brace that may help you stay active while you recover.
What Makes a Good Knee Brace?
If a knee brace provides support and allows you to go about your daily activities, then it’s usually doing its job.
Quite often, people will rely on a knee brace to help prevent further injuries when exercising or playing sport.
The type of support a knee brace offers can often depend on the type of knee injury.
This article will look at two common knee injuries – bursitis and a meniscus tear.
Bursitis is the inflammation of the bursa. That’s a small fluid-filled sac that provides cushioning between the bones and tendons in your knee joints.
Your meniscus is a C-shaped disc that cushions your knee. Each knee has two menisci and they help keep your knee steady.
Both injuries can cause pain and ongoing problems. Many meniscus tears don't need immediate surgery and are treated first with rest, ice, compression, elevation and anti-inflammatory medicine.
MedlinePlus notes that you may need a brace to support and stabilize your knee, along with physical therapy.
Call your doctor if swelling or pain gets worse, self-care isn't helping, your knee locks and you can't straighten it, or it feels more unstable.
When purchasing a knee brace for a meniscus tear or a knee brace for bursitis, there are few factors your should consider.
Material
Knee braces can be made from metal, foam, plastic, elastic, material and straps.
Quite often they’re made from a combination of these materials.
The best material will depend on the severity of your injury and the amount of support required.
Size
Some knee braces follow the ‘one size fits all’ model and others have specific sizing.
If you're between sizes, follow the maker's sizing chart or ask a clinician to help with fit.
Type/Style
The style is linked with size. A wrap-around style allows for personal adjustments whereas a slip-on style is generally available in a range of sizes, but it can’t be adjusted.
There are also more advanced designs that contain steel springs or hinges to allow for support and natural movement.
These will generally be made specific to the individual and are more expensive.
TugSport Knee Brace
If you’re looking for a knee brace for a meniscus injury that’ll fit just about anybody, the TugSport brace is for you.
It provides support on both sides of your knee, and the maker pitches it for meniscus tears, bursitis and other knee injuries.
There’s an opening for your patella (kneecap) to relieve pressure on the rest of your knee making it great to wear when exercising.
The TugSport isn’t just confined to those who want support when exercising.
It’s comfortable enough to wear everyday thanks to the breathable, flexible, and supportive neoprene fabric.
Pros And Cons
Whilst the TugSport brace is adjustable, its also sized.
You need to follow the measuring instructions in order to obtain the most appropriate size for you and this may confusing for some.
Once the right size is purchased, you'll have a brace that offers solid support and still be able to bend and stretch your knee to some degree of normalcy.
The brace is made from neoprene and whilst this usually doesn’t cause any allergic reactions, there may be some exceptions, especially when sweating.
The brace can’t be put in the washing machine, making washing it a little time consuming to clean.
However, its adjustable straps and comfort make it a good knee brace.
Check the current warranty and return terms on the listing before you buy.
In Conclusion
Finding the right knee brace for you and your injury can be a difficult task.
The TugSport brace is a suitable knee brace for a meniscus injury for many people.
Comfortable enough to wear all day it should fit perfectly due to the combination of sizing and adjustments.
It’ll allow you to feel support and confidence when going about your daily activities as well as when exercising or playing sport.
If pain continues, or your knee locks or gives way, see a doctor.
This article is general information, not medical advice. See a doctor or other qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment.
Sources
- Meniscus Tears, OrthoInfo (American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons)
- Meniscus tears - aftercare, MedlinePlus
