Did you know that nearly 63% of all athletes suffer an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during their athletic career? This is a problem that affects millions of people, but thankfully, there are effective options for treatment and management. In this post, we’ll explore how both off-the-shelf and custom braces can be used to overcome ACL injuries.
Understanding ACL Injuries
An ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) injury is a common knee injury that occurs when the ACL, one of the major ligaments in the knee joint, becomes stretched or torn. This injury often happens during sports activities that involve sudden stops, changes in direction, or direct impact to the knee.
Common symptoms of an ACL injury include:
- A Loud “Pop” Sound: Many individuals report hearing or feeling a “pop” in the knee at the time of injury, indicating a potential ACL tear.
- Severe Pain: Intense pain in the knee immediately following the injury is a common symptom. The pain may prevent the individual from continuing the activity.
- Swelling: Swelling usually occurs within a few hours of the injury due to bleeding within the joint. The knee may become visibly swollen and feel warm to the touch.
- Instability: A feeling of instability or the knee “giving way” when attempting to stand or walk is a hallmark of ACL injuries. This instability is due to the loss of ligament support.
- Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty bending or straightening the knee can result from swelling and pain, limiting the joint’s range of motion.
- Difficulty Bearing Weight: Walking or putting weight on the affected leg may be challenging due to pain and instability.
The Role of Knee Braces in Recovering From ACL Injury
A knee brace can help stabilize the knee joint and provide support to the injured ACL during the healing process. By limiting excessive movement and providing additional reinforcement to the knee ligament, a knee brace can help reduce pain, swelling, and instability, allowing individuals to engage in activities while protecting the injured knee.
Knee braces are often used in conjunction with physiotherapy and other treatments to strengthen the muscles around the knee. The brace provides the necessary support, enabling individuals to perform strengthening and flexibility exercises without risking further injury.
Consistent use of a knee brace during the recovery phase and beyond can contribute to long-term knee health. By providing ongoing support, braces help maintain joint stability and prevent future injuries.
Benefits of Using a Custom Knee Brace After an ACL Injury
Custom knee braces for ACL injuries are specifically designed to fit the unique anatomy and alignment of the individual’s knee joint. These offer several benefits:
- Optimal Fit: Custom knee braces are tailored to the individual’s knee, providing superior comfort and support compared to off-the-shelf models. This is in contrast to off-the-shelf models, which come in standard sizes and may not provide a perfect fit.
- Enhanced Stability: Custom knee braces help stabilize the knee joint and protect the injured ACL, reducing the risk of further damage and promoting safer movement during recovery.
- Improved Functionality: Custom knee braces can be customized with features such as adjustable hinges and straps to accommodate specific activity levels and provide optimal support while allowing for freedom of movement.
- Accelerated Healing: By providing support and protection to the injured knee ligament, custom knee braces can help facilitate the healing process and promote faster recovery from ACL injuries.
How Long Should You Wear a Knee Brace After an ACL Injury?
The duration you should wear a custom knee brace after an ACL injury varies depending on the severity of the injury, individual recovery progress, and healthcare provider recommendations. In general, you may need to wear a custom knee brace for several weeks to months during the initial stages of recovery and rehabilitation.
Healthcare providers will typically provide guidance on wearing the knee brace, including specific instructions on when to wear it, how long to wear it each day, and when it can be gradually phased out as the knee heals and strength improves.
Maintenance and Care Routine for a Custom Knee Brace
To ensure optimal performance and longevity of a custom knee brace, it’s essential to follow a maintenance and care routine, including:
- Cleaning: Regularly clean the brace with mild soap and water to remove dirt, sweat, and debris. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners that may damage the brace material.
- Drying: Allow the brace to air dry completely before storing it or wearing it again. Avoid exposing the brace to direct heat sources, as excessive heat can warp or damage certain brace materials.
- Inspection: Routinely inspect the brace for signs of wear and tear, including fraying straps, loose hinges, or damaged padding. Replace any worn or damaged components as needed to maintain proper functionality and support.
- Storage: Store the brace in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid folding or crumpling the brace, as this can affect its structural integrity and fit.
How Knee Braces Impact Mobility and Daily Activities
Custom knee braces for ACL injuries are designed to provide support and stability to the knee joint while allowing for a range of motion necessary for daily activities and mobility. While wearing a custom knee brace, individuals may experience a slight adjustment period as they adapt to the feel of the brace and its effects on movement.
Overall, custom knee braces are engineered to enhance mobility and function by reducing pain and instability associated with ACL injuries. With proper fitting and adjustment, individuals can continue to engage in a variety of daily activities, including walking, climbing stairs, and light exercise, while wearing a custom knee brace.
Personalized Care for Faster Recovery
Now that you’ve learned about bracing for ACL injuries, it’s time to take action. At Body Works Physiotherapy in Scarborough, our team specializes in custom-made and custom-fitted braces. We’re here to help you get back to your life NOW! Book your appointment today and let’s work together towards a healthier, happier you.
