Compression Sleeves vs Therapy Braces

Mayo Clinic Family Health Book, 5th Edition

‘‘A brace might help reduce pain by shifting your weight off the most damaged portion of your knee. Wearing a brace can improve your ability to get around and help you walk farther comfortably.’’

Compression sleeves and therapy braces for the knee serve different purposes when it comes to sports, movement, and recovery. Here are the key differences between the two:

Therapy Brace:

  1. Purpose: Therapy braces, also known as rehabilitative or functional braces, are designed to provide more significant support and stability to the knee joint.

  2. Support and Stabilization: Therapy braces are typically constructed with more rigid materials and features such as hinges, straps, and additional support structures. They are intended to limit the range of motion and provide stability to the knee during intense physical activities or when recovering from a more severe injury.

  3. Injury Rehabilitation: Therapy braces are commonly used during post-injury rehabilitation to protect and support the knee joint while allowing controlled movement.

  4. Injury Recovery: These braces are recommended for more significant knee injuries, such as ligament tears or after knee surgery, as they offer more substantial support during the recovery process.

  5. Customizability: Therapy braces are often prescribed and custom-fitted by healthcare professionals to ensure a proper fit and tailored support based on the individual's injury and recovery needs.

Compression Sleeve

  1. Purpose: Compression sleeves are primarily designed to provide compression and support to the knee joint and surrounding muscles.

  2. Compression and Circulation: The main function of a compression sleeve is to improve circulation and promote blood flow to the area. This can help reduce swelling, inflammation, and muscle fatigue during physical activity.

  3. Muscle Stabilization: While compression sleeves offer some degree of support, their main focus is on enhancing circulation and providing a snug fit to the knee area.

  4. Range of Motion: Compression sleeves are typically lightweight and allow for a wide range of motion, making them suitable for various sports and activities.

  5. Injury Prevention: Compression sleeves can be used as a preventive measure against minor knee injuries or to manage mild pain or discomfort.


 

Braces are a tool to assist in faster recovery or injury prevention. Our Therapy Braces are recommended by physiotherapists and used by athletes of all backgrounds.

For braces to wear during your workout or sports activities, we recommend our Enhance & Performance Range. These products feature sweat-wicking fabric with all-around even compression to provide you with stability and freedom of movement.

For braces after your workout or for everyday activities, we recommend our Support & Assistance Range. These products feature more stability components such as additional gel padding, side stabilizers, and adjustable straps.

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Injuries in Knee Ligaments

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