track runner in starting position

What is a Hinged Knee Brace and How Can it Help Me?

From the outside, the human knee looks rather simple. But on the inside, it’s a multifaceted compilation of bones, ligaments and tendons. In fact, it’s so complicated that just recently, knee surgeons across the globe learned that there’s one more area in the knee that needs to be supported, the anterolateral ligament. So there’s another reason to love high quality, hinged-knee braces.  man wearing a Mueller hinged knee brace while hiking

For proof of the effectiveness of hinged-knee braces, one only has to look at back issues of American Family Physician. They contain research demonstrating the important role that knee braces play when it comes to helping athletes recover from injuries. One such article appeared in the publication’s January 2000 edition. It touched upon issues related to strength training, range of motion and endurance issues. You may want to check it out at your leisure. But what is a hinged-knee brace? Basically, it’s a brace designed to support all of the knee’s working parts in unison. Thus, it doesn’t matter how many more knee ligaments come to light in the future, hinged knee braces have both amateur and professional athletes covered.

At this point, you’re probably wondering which specific conditions and injuries may be treated with hinged knee braces. The most common ones are tears to the anterior cruciate ligament, medial collateral ligament, posterior cruciate ligament, anterolateral ligament and meniscus. So, if you ever find yourself dealing with torn ligaments or cartilage, consider investing in a hinged knee brace.

It should also be noted that not all hinged knee braces are created equally. It’s best to select one that is long and wide enough to support your entire knee. At Mueller Sports Medicine, we have a variety of knee braces and support products in stock. So finding one to suit your training and recovery needs is easy. To learn more, please contact us.