Evidence behind bracing after acl injury introduction Knee braces are commonly prescribed for many reasons after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction or injury.
Evidence behind bracing after acl injury introduction Knee braces are commonly prescribed for many reasons after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction or injury. Documented use of knee braces to treat ligament injury and instability goes back to as early as the 1960s, most notably the use of the Lenox Hill brace by American football quarterback Joe Namath following multiple knee surgeries, which was developed by Castiglia and Nicholas. The results of the existing literature on functional brace use are mixed.
Ruptures of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) are the most common ligament injury in the knee. Approximately 200,000 ACL injuries occur each year in the United States and most of these are non-contact injuries. Females show a higher injury rate than males and all of these have been established in the literature.
The highest injury rates are seen in sports which include stop-and-go actions, jumps, rotations and fast changes of velocity or direction such as football, handball, basketball, volleyball, skiing and tennis. Residual instability, neuromuscular deficits, and altered lower extremity biomechanics following ACL injury and reconstruction can result in overcompensation and altered biomechanics in the contralateral leg and an increased risk of secondary injury in both the injured and contralateral knees. Anatomic reconstructions have attempted to restore stability to the intact state with improved tunnel placement, but elongation of the ACL graft during the healing process remains unrestrained.
Additionally, graft failure rates following anatomic reconstruction have been reported to be as high as 13 %. Braces as a simple and cost-effective aid are often used in order to immobilize the knee joint, to prevent excessive joint movements and to improve stability during activity and thus to prevent secondary injuries. There are several different brace concepts.
Traditional knee braces are designed as rigid shells with a hinge joint and straps to mechanically guide and support the knee joint during motion. These are many times called functional braces. Functional brace use has been reported for many reasons.
If you are experiencing symptoms that may be related to evidence behind bracing after acl injury, it is important to see a sports medicine physician. Early evaluation and treatment typically lead to better outcomes. Do not ignore pain or symptoms that are limiting your activity.
*This article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.*
Connect with a doctor, physical therapist, or imaging center near you.
Find a Provider Near You โ