ACL Knee Braces are supreme-level supporting systems that are used for various reasons with the sole purpose of protecting the knee. There are three main grounds on which one follows the use of (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) ACL braces; to de-stress the knee, for surgical purposes, or to release tension off the ligament post-surgery. These braces provide extra stability to specific ligaments around your knee to release it from stress and heavy pressure that we put on it in our daily lives. It is also a great asset to let the joints heal. In most cases, it is a long-term as well as a necessary way to re-strengthen knees.
Injuries related to this cruciate ligament happen majorly due to accidents or while playing explosive sports like basketball, gymnastics, speed skating, etc. While accidents can only be avoided, the latter can be prevented with proper stretching, exercise, and nutrition. ACL braces are designed to limit the movement of the knee to release the ligament of stress and provide it time to heal with time. It also supports the surgical graft (during post-surgery), balances muscle timings in general activities, and eases any kind of pressure on the knees.
Why are ACL Knee Braces Necessary?
We all know that knee-related equipment is regarded highly everywhere. Be it from any walk of life, protection, and longevity of the knee are talked about seriously. Data shows that around 25% of people above 40 years of age suffer from knee pains due to age and weaknesses whereas, overuse of muscles can quickly turn out into problems relating to stiffness and knee pain amongst adults in their twenties. This strain of data in context to human biology implies how crucial knee health is.
The use of ACL braces can work wonders when used with purpose. High-performance athletes are known to even use them during high-intensity workouts to avoid any kind of unnecessary load on the knee. This proves that one need not necessarily be recommended an ACL brace, there clearly are several other reasons to start using one.
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Structural Support after Surgery
After surgery, the reconstructed ligament takes time to strengthen inside your joint. Any kind of unwelcome and sudden pressure on it can not only slow down the healing process but also can reduce the chances of full recovery. Putting on ACL braces avoids unnecessary muscle movement and prevents the cartilage from retaining force and pressure by restricting certain movements.
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Resistance During or Post Injury
Resisting muscle or limb movement is advised by physicians as the key recovery factor for almost all injuries. Despite our constant awareness, we can unconsciously apply sudden force to our affected area. ACL knee braces can help in shutting exactly these threats. Many serious injuries come from minor pains and injuries. Any kind of support or prevention method is advisable to imply actively.
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Prevention of Injuries
Our average day-to-day work lifestyle does not require us to go through any physical turmoil, apart from the day that seems to be more tiring than normal. Despite this fact, any sudden change in lifestyle like taking up gymming, running, or learning a new sport means an instant change in lifestyle and muscle movements. Studies have shown that around 80% of ACL injuries are contactless and are caused due to sudden and heavy force; which means it is completely the body weight inducing the injury. Braces can help our muscle groups get used to these unforeseen activities and can ease any kind of heavy pressure applied to the specified muscle group.
Choosing the Right Brace for Your Knee
If you are in the market for knee braces due to slight pain, you can easily look up standard braces to create some resistance and relax your knee. Contrastingly, in other cases, ready-to-wear knee braces from sports shops or medical stores cannot promise a lot. If your orthopedist or physician recommends you a knee brace, it is advisable to learn the nature and type of brace from these professionals themselves. Different detailing of braces and protective equipment can change as frequently as the sport or activity it is being used for. When choosing a knee brace, make sure to try it on before making a purchase. One should analyse if the brace is properly providing support to the knee. In cases otherwise, it is as good as not wearing a brace if it isn’t providing any resistance. You can even get custom ACL braces designed to specifically support your affected area. These are costlier than your average knee braces and require a physician’s assistant.