Wearing knee protection, such as a brace, involves ensuring it's properly positioned, snug, and secure without being overly tight to avoid discomfort or circulation issues. Here's a breakdown:
Steps for Wearing Knee Protection Correctly
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Positioning: Place the knee protection device (e.g., brace, pad) according to its design. Most braces have specific orientations for the left or right knee and should align with the knee joint.
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Securing: Fasten all straps or closures. Start with the closures closest to the knee joint for optimal stability.
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Adjustment: Adjust the tightness of the straps to achieve a snug fit. The goal is to provide support without restricting movement or causing discomfort.
- Important Note: The brace should be snug and secure without being too tight. According to provided information, "It shouldn't hurt or feel like it's cutting off circulation to your leg."
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Range of Motion Check: After securing the knee protection, test your range of motion. You should be able to bend and straighten your knee without significant restriction or pain.
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Ongoing Monitoring: Throughout use, periodically check the fit and tightness of the knee protection, especially during activities. Readjust as needed to maintain proper support and comfort.
Signs of Improper Fit
- Pain or Discomfort: If the knee protection causes pain, chafing, or irritation, it's likely too tight or improperly positioned.
- Restricted Circulation: If you notice numbness, tingling, or discoloration in your leg, the knee protection may be restricting circulation. Loosen the straps immediately.
- Excessive Slippage: If the knee protection slides down or rotates during activity, it's not snug enough. Tighten the straps or consider a different size or model.
- Worsened Knee Pain: The reference mentions: "It might feel strange or like the brace is pushing your knee into alignment (especially at first), but it should never hurt or make knee pain worse". If your knee pain worsens, the brace may not be appropriate for your condition.
Types of Knee Protection and Their Specific Fitting Notes
| Type of Knee Protection | Specific Fitting Notes |
|---|---|
| Hinged Knee Brace | Ensure the hinge aligns with the center of your knee joint for proper movement. |
| Knee Sleeves | Should fit snugly without bunching behind the knee. |
| Knee Pads (e.g., for sports) | Position to fully cover the patella (kneecap) and secure to prevent shifting during activity. |
| Post-Op Knee Brace | Follow the specific fitting instructions provided by your doctor or physical therapist. These braces often have adjustable range-of-motion settings. |
