Knee Braces: What They Do & How To Wear One

What does a knee brace do?

A knee brace supports your knee and holds it in place. Knee braces work by keeping your knee in alignment. They’re usually made of stiff plastic or metal with cushions and straps that wrap around your knee and leg.

A knee brace helps you avoid stressing your knee joint and keeps it from moving too far or too suddenly. How much resistance and support a brace gives you depends on which type you need.

Types of knee braces

The most common types of knee brace include:

• Unloader knee braces: Unloader braces get their name from how they support your knee. They help absorb some of your weight and “unload” pressure off your knee to other parts of your leg that are strong enough to bear it. They’re the most common type of brace providers suggest for knee arthritis.
• Patellofemoral knee braces: Patellofemoral braces protect and support your kneecap (your patella) and the front of your knee.
• Knee immobilizer braces: These are knee braces you wear while you’re recovering from surgery. They’re usually stiffer and prevent some (or all) movement.
• Functional knee braces: Like their name sounds, functional braces help you safely use your knee. They let you move your knee, but prevent it from moving too much or too far in one direction. They’re the most common type of brace people wear after a knee injury.
• Prophylactic braces: Athletes wear these braces to prevent knee injuries. They’re especially popular among people who play contact sports like football or rugby. Ask your healthcare provider if you should wear a prophylactic knee brace before you buy one.

Your healthcare provider will tell you where you can get a knee brace and if you’ll need it custom-fitted. Some braces are available over the counter (OTC) or at retail stores. Other types are only available with a prescription.

Knee sleeves

Knee sleeves are made of tight elastic material that lightly squeezes your knee. They’re not actually braces the way other types on this list are, but they’re the most common type of knee support people wear.

How do I put on a knee brace?

Most knee braces fit around your knee with stretchy elastic or Velcro® straps. The brace should be snug and secure without being too tight. It shouldn’t hurt or feel like it’s cutting off circulation to your leg.

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. Talk to your healthcare provider or physical therapist before wearing a new brace. They’ll help you get used to putting it on, wearing it and moving with it.