There are many things you should consider when you’re purchasing knee support. You’ll want to look for something comfortable, supportive, and long-lasting – but one of the most important aspects to consider is your body type.

For instance, if you’re tall or have a long inseam, you may want to stay away from a knee support with straps that come over the top of your foot because they can rub uncomfortably on your calf muscle (typically, this concern is more common with men). Whatever the case, consider the following guidelines when shopping for the ideal knee support for your particular body, condition, and needs.

Different Levels of Support

The right knee support will also depend on how much support you need. Reputable supports like Novamed Knee Supports offer a wide range of solutions, including compression sleeves, wrap-around, and hinged knee supports.

While a compression sleeve might be sufficient for some people, you may have weak knee joints and require more substantial medical assistance. When it comes to knee braces for basketball, soccer, and other intense sports, consider the level of support you’ll need before purchasing.

Ensure the Size Is Correct

Choosing an appropriately sized support is also important, especially when determining whether or not the brace will fit properly. You’ll want to measure your thigh circumference and consult the product’s sizing guide before making a purchase – and if possible, try on various sizes to find what works best for you. If possible, ask someone else to help you measure because it might be difficult to get an accurate measurement by yourself.

While it should be comfortable, a good knee brace will also give you enough support to help you avoid injuries. Since the knee joint is one of the most commonly injured joints in sports and athleticism, you must protect this delicate area. Whether you’ve already had an injury or are looking for preventative measures, a good knee brace is essential for athletes and those who are active regularly.

Pain Caused by the Knee Cap

Some people experience patellar malalignment when the kneecap doesn’t sit correctly within its groove. Patellar malalignment can make squatting difficult and cause pain underneath the kneecap. When you squat, the patella guides the femur downward. Unfortunately, if it doesn’t sit correctly in the groove, the patella can shift and cause pain in several other areas of the knee.

This problem may be fixed by wearing a brace or support. A support will typically slide underneath the kneecap, and a brace will slide up from its side and strap to your thighbone (femur). Knee braces for swimming or kneeling will protect your knees from injury while also reducing discomfort due to painful muscle stretching. Both treatments are used when you don’t want to wear a full-length knee brace that can restrict movement.

A Support Should Be Comfortable

A good knee support should provide the right amount of support and cushioning to prevent injury. It shouldn’t limit your range of motion and shouldn’t feel heavy or bulky. Also, when you purchase a medical-grade brace, you’ll want to look for features like a strong cord zipper and durable straps that are soft to the touch.

Final Thoughts

If you want to protect your knees, you must purchase the right knee support. When choosing knee support for basketball, soccer, and other sports, look for something effective and comfortable. Making the right choice will help you avoid injury and give you the results you want in the long term.