Why You Might Consider a Hinged Sports Brace


When you need to wear a knee brace (in the event of an injury), you want to reduce discomfort and support recovery. You might feel inclined to choose a knee brace based on its appearance, thinking, “Oh, that one looks comfortable. It should be fine.” However, getting the advice of a sports medicine professional or the doctor in charge of your recovery and rehabilitation is essential. They’ll direct you to the best style of brace to properly support your joint, which may be a hinged knee brace.

A hinged brace, particularly a rigid hinge brace, features hinges at the joint instead of simply wraps or Velcro straps. Hinges can help stabilize the joint and prevent hyperextensions. If your doctor recommends a hinged sports brace, this is why: 

Knee Brace

Prevent Sports-Related Injuries

Soft-hinged sports braces are great options to help prevent injuries and discomfort associated with knee movements. They work well for mild and moderate support, and you can wear them for day-to-day activities as well as for more knee running support. Soft-hinged braces still offer wearers plenty of stabilization and support for ligament and meniscus injuries, sprains, and instability. So, if a rigid brace feels uncomfortable, you may want to talk to your doctor about a soft-hinged brace.

Prevent Damage to an Injured Joint or Ligament

Impact on or overextension of an already injured joint or ligament can increase levels of discomfort. A hinged brace can help you control your joint movements, so it’s a style that a sports medicine professional may recommend to help prevent further damage to an injured joint or ligament. Wearing a hinged brace may also help you return to activities that support physical therapy progress while reducing or preventing more strain on the joint.

Knee Brace

Support Joints and Ligaments After Surgery

You might wear a rigid hinged brace after knee surgery or in recovery after a more severe injury. Procedures such as ACL reconstructions, meniscus repairs, and knee replacement surgeries may require a rigid hinged knee brace so that doctors can help you gradually increase mobility at different stages of recovery. Maximizing joint stabilization can reduce the risk of setbacks associated with misalignment and strain.

Reduce Discomfort and Pressure in Your Knee

If you experience discomfort from chronic conditions, including osteoarthritis, a hinged brace may reduce joint strain and establish more even weight distribution. You could move more confidently and securely with a hinged brace, finding relief from your chronic discomfort. Of course, you may want to discuss this with your doctor, as they could have another brace or physical therapy practices to help you feel more stable and reduce feelings of discomfort. 

Knee Brace

Hinged braces are an excellent option for athletes, people recovering from surgery, and others who need more support for chronic conditions. Discuss the different kinds of hinged braces with your doctor so that you can make an informed decision about your physical health.

About DonJoy®

For athletes, performance is paramount. But when you want to help protect your joints, prevent injury, and aid recovery, DonJoy® knows that proper support comes first. That’s why they’re your trusted source for reliable bracing solutions for athletes at every level, from newcomers to professionals. Their comprehensive line of sports bracing and rehabilitation products is designed to offer the support and protection you need on and off the field or court. Whether you’re searching for knee compression sleeves you can wear during recovery or an arm brace you can count on during practices and games, you’ll find high-quality options from DonJoy®. Not sure where to start? Check out the Injury Info Center and Bracing Advisor on their website to learn about common concerns and discover the perfect brace for your needs.

Learn more about DonJoy® bracing options when you visit https://www.donjoystore.com/

Popular posts from this blog

What to Do When You’re Injured on the Football Field

What You Can Expect From an Athletic Trainer During Football Season

The Key Differences Between Wraps, Braces, and Sleeves for Knee Support