Knee supports are designed to stabilize the knee joint when muscles, tendons or ligaments have been weakened or injured. They also provide stability to the patella. The use of neoprene helps retain natural body heat, which increases circulation, thereby reducing swelling and speeding recovery.

Acute Knee Conditions- Knee conditions are classified as acute for the first 72 hours following an injury. Treatment for acute injuries should begin as soon as possible and focus on stabilization and comfort. The R.I.C.E. treatment regime (rest, ice, compression, elevation) is recommended to minimize swelling.

Ideal products for this stage of injury:

Ice/Heat Packs: Dual Comfort CorPak 6" X 10" or Dual Comfort CorPak 10" X 13"
Braces/Support: Performance Wrap Knee Support, Deluxe Neoprene Hinged Knee Support, or Wraparound Elastic Knee Support  For minor sprains/strains: Neoprene Knee Sleeve

Sub-Acute Knee Conditions- Knee conditions are classified as sub-acute from 72 hours to six to eight weeks after an injury. By this time, swelling is under control and the injury is well into the healing stage. During this stage, knee supports provide important support during rehabilitation.

Ideal products for this stage of injury:

Heat/Ice Packs: Dual Comfort CorPak 6" X 10" or Dual Comfort CorPak 10" X 13"
Braces/Support: Performance Wrap Knee Support, Standard Neoprene Knee Support, Fits-All Neoprene Knee Support, or Wraparound Neoprene Knee Support

Chronic Knee Conditions- Chronic conditions, such as ongoing weakness or instability, may be caused by repeated injuries or arthritis. Supports help supplement weak muscles and ligaments, and provide a reassuring feeling of knee strength and stability for those with arthritis.

Ideal products for this stage of injury:

Heat/Ice Packs: Dual Comfort CorPak 6" X 10" or Dual Comfort CorPak 10" X 13"
Braces/Support: Performance Wrap Knee Support, Neoprene Knee Sleeve, or X Back Elastic Knee Brace

Keep in mind that these time frames are only guidelines. Healing times may vary depending on the severity of an injury. Consult your healthcare professional to determine the best treatment plan for your injury.

Common Conditions of the Knee:

Arthritis- Any one of the three types of arthritis of the knee (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid and post-traumatic), characterized by inflammation and the degeneration of the articular cartilage. Look for a support that provides warmth and mild compression. This aids in controlling chronic swelling and provides a feeling of stability. 
Recommended Product: Neoprene Knee Sleeve also see Chronic Knee Conditions.

Chondromalacia Patella (Runner’s Knee)- Softening of the cartilage on the undersurface of the patella, which results in pain under or around the kneecap. Look for a support that provides patellar stability, mild compression and a patellar cut-out.
Recommended Product: Wraparound Neoprene Knee Support.

Ligament Injuries- Ligament sprains or tears require substantial support varying with the degree of injury. Mild injury, minimal support; severe injury, maximal support. For mild injuries, look for a brace with spiral stays; severe injuries, look for a brace with metal hinges.
Recommended Products: Mild Injury- Wraparound Elastic Knee Support or Wraparound Neoprene Knee Support  Severe Injury- Deluxe Neoprene Hinged Knee Support.

Patellar Subluxation or Dislocation- Improper tracking of the patella in the trochlear groove (patellofemoral articulation), can be caused by underdeveloped or weak quadricep muscles or increased Q angle. A dislocation occurs when the patella has moved completely out of the trochlear groove. Look for a support that provides lateral patellar stability.
Recommended Products: Patella Strap or Wraparound Neoprene Knee Support.

Patellar Tendinitis (Jumper’s Knee)- Inflammation of the patellar tendon, the tendon that attaches the patella to the tibia. Look for a support that redistributes the force on the patellar tendon.
Recommended Product: Patella Strap or Fits-All Neoprene Knee Support.

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