Basketball is one of the more competitive and active sports, with constant jumping, shooting, and twisting. That said, players often get knee injuries like tendonitis, tears, and sprains, which account for the 21% of basketball players who will suffer from one of these conditions. This statistic implies that knee braces are crucial to basketball players in maintaining good health and recovering from injuries.
Using knee braces is an important strategy to help cope with or prevent various knee injuries while being incorporated as a treatment plan. The goal of the knee brace is to provide support and stability without interfering with the normal functions of the knee. In this guide, we will explore the best knee braces for basketball players and the benefits of knee braces for those who have had or currently treating a knee injury.
Choosing a Knee Brace for Basketball
Before choosing a knee brace, learning about the various braces available and how they fit your needs is best. Some players wear a knee brace to prevent potential injuries, while others use one to help heal an existing one. For instance, someone with moderate to severe pain or injury will require an unloader brace that takes off the pressure from the joint, while someone treating mild pain will benefit from a sleeve-style brace.
It narrows down to the level of protection, which can be categorized into three;
Level 1, like the knee sleeve, is the most flexible but provides the least support. The support might be mild to moderate, but it is alright to prevent injury while playing.
Level 2 isn’t as flexible as Level 1, but it still allows for a higher range of motion. Good examples are knee straps and wraparound braces. They will give you mild to moderate support to relieve pain from tendonitis and ligament instabilities.
While level 3 offers the most support, it provides slightly less movement, like an unloader knee brace or hinged knee brace. They are generally best for players recovering from surgery or a knee injury to prevent reinjuring themselves.
There is always level 3+ for maximum protection. This category applies to braces supporting major joint instabilities, post-surgical joint protection, and therapeutic recovery like knee immobilizers. These are not recommended for basketball players once they are back to playing again.
What Are the Best Knee Braces for Basketball?
There are several knee brace for basketball to choose from. These are the most recommended:
Unloader Knee Brace
Unloader or offloader braces are specialized for non-surgical support to relieve those treating knee osteoarthritis. While it delays possible future surgery, it is best for post-surgery recovery.
How It Works
The unloader brace has a sturdy and lightweight frame connected by hinges that are supported by the thigh and calf. Conditions such as osteoarthritis deteriorate the cartilage that protects the knee joints, which is where the unloader braces work to apply corrective forces. In this way, it helps offload pressure from the damaged part of the knee.
How to Use
Generally, the hinges should be aligned with the knee joint. The straps should be fastened securely but slightly tight. It takes time and patience to become accustomed to the brace. So may begin wearing it for short periods, then gradually increase the wearing period as it gets comfortable.
Unloader Knee Brace Benefits
Players with injuries or osteoarthritis use unloader knee braces for:
Delaying surgery – some professionals may recommend unloader braces before surgery
Pain relief – it relieves discomfort and pain by redistributing the weight-bearing forces
Post-surgical support – it speeds up post-surgical recovery
Improved mobility – most beneficial for players with an increased range of motion since it enhances joint stability
Activity-specific support – basketball players engage in physically demanding activities that need added support and protection.
Knee Sleeves
Compression knee sleeves minimize mild to moderate chronic knee pain and are usually used when recovering from minor pain or injuries. Like unloaded braces, they redistribute the weight, albeit less effectively, but have more mobility allowing you to perform better during practice and games.
Knee Sleeve Benefits
Knee sleeves compress the knee area to increase blood flow. This translates to improved proprioception, reduced inflammation, decreased pain, and allows you to be aware of movement. It also reduces swelling by preventing fluid buildup in the knee. While inflammation is a typical injury response, excessive swelling should be controlled early. It’s not only painful; it limits your range of motion but weakens the knees’ quadriceps muscles.
Types of Knee Sleeves
Knee sleeves come in different types with different features. Some support only the kneecap, and others are designed to support the whole knee. Depending on your preference, activity level, and knee condition, you prefer one which is;
- Adjustable
- Good for sensitive skin
- Durable
- Breathable to reduce odors
- Easy to put on and off
- Stretchable
- Not easy to slip
- Lightweight to easily fit under clothing
- Moisture wicking
- Cost-friendly
Hinged Knee Brace
Some players would prefer a hinged knee brace for basketball, especially those that need stability and protection after ligament reconstruction. It is also an excellent alternative for competitive players who want to stop PCL, MCL, and ACL injuries. It has four parts that target the critical parts of the knees to reduce pressure and pain.
How to Use
Get fitted by a healthcare provider who will recommend a custom hinge knee brace. They will help you fasten the loops and straps correctly. If it slips out of place, it will worsen the injuries.
Wear when in the court (as directed) – it should be worn during activities that cause injury.
Inspect your skin more often – check out for dry, red, irritated, sore, or other problems in the parts that rub against the brace. Your healthcare provider may recommend soothing those parts with cream or covering them with a bandage.
Wraparound Knee Brace
This type is an alternative choice to unloader knee braces for basketball players since it’s easy to put on and off yet lacks support. Its relaxed fit makes it easier to concentrate during the match without as much discomfort.
Wraparound Knee Brace Benefits
- Ensures compression and support in all the knee parts
- Stability from the steel springs so you don’t lose your movement
- Cross-over strap offers all-round support and stability
- Supports afflicted knee
What is the Best Knee Brace for Basketball?
The unloader knee brace stands out among the other options when considering which is the best knee brace for basketball. Notably, the Ascender Unloader Knee Brace by Icarus Medical which offers exceptional support, comfort, durability, and customizability, catering to your needs and recovery journey. To explore the benefits of the Ascender unloader brace, contact us today and consult with one of our healthcare professionals.
