The best knee brace for biking depends on the specific needs and preferences of the individual. Biking is a great way to stay active, especially for individuals looking for a low-impact exercise option. Regular cycling can help strengthen the knee joint muscles, improve joint mobility, and reduce the risk of knee pain and injury. Regular biking has even been proven to minimize the risk of some chronic diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes.
However, if a person has an existing knee injury or joint condition, excessive cycling or using improper form while cycling can exacerbate the pain and lead to further damage to the knee. Cycling puts repetitive stress on the knee, resulting in pain, tendinitis, and other knee injuries. The best knee brace for cycling depends on the rider, how much they ride, and what type of biking they do. At Icarus Medical, we put your health first and are here to keep you pedaling your way to a healthy lifestyle.
Most Common Knee Injuries for Bikers
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS) – Pain around the knee cap caused by repeated stress to the joint.
- Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) – Inflammation of the iliotibial band, a tendon that runs from the hip to the knee, due to overuse.
- Chondromalacia Patella – Misalignment of the knee joint damages the cartilage under the kneecap.
- Meniscus tears – Tearing of the shock-absorbing cartilage in the knee joint.
- Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injuries – Sudden changes in direction or impact causing a sprain or tear to the ACL, a major ligament in the knee.
Types of Knee Braces for Biking
If you are experiencing knee pain while cycling, wearing a knee brace can provide you with the support and relief you need to help keep you moving forward. Several types of knee braces are suitable for biking, including:
Patellofemoral Knee Brace: This type of brace is designed to support the knee cap and alleviate pain in the knee joint while cycling.
Hinged Knee Brace: This type of brace provides stability and protection to the knee while cycling, especially for those who have previously suffered a knee injury.
Neoprene Knee Brace: This type of brace is designed to provide warmth and support to the knee joint while cycling, helping to reduce the risk of injury.
Compression Knee Sleeve: This type of knee brace provides support and compression to the knee joint while cycling, helping to reduce knee pain and discomfort.
When choosing the best knee brace for cycling, you must consider the type of riding you do and any existing knee conditions you may have. It’s best to consult with a doctor or physical therapist for personalized recommendations.
What Is The Best Knee Brace for Biking?
Considering the pros and cons of each type of knee brace, a patellofemoral knee brace ranks as the best option. Look no further than Icarus Medical and the Ascender Brace. Through 3D scans, 3D models, and 3D printing, Icarus Medical designs custom knee braces tailored to alleviate the pain associated with the patellofemoral joint. During flexion, the Ascender’s multi-compartment unloading technology assists the quadriceps to draw apart and decompress the knee joint. Thus, internal joint pressure is reduced, reducing knee pain and inflammation while increasing joint stability, strength, and mobility.
The Ascender knee brace can provide cyclists additional support to the knee joint during their rides. By transferring pressure from the knee joint to the brace frame, the Ascender knee brace helps alleviate stress and reduces the risk of knee pain, osteoarthritis, and other knee injuries. This knee brace can also help bikers maintain proper form, further reducing the risk of injury and allowing for longer, more comfortable rides. Additionally, the Ascender knee brace is adjustable and made with lightweight, breathable materials, making it comfortable to wear during even the most strenuous rides. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting, the Ascender knee brace is an excellent tool to help keep your knees healthy and pain-free.
