Patella Brace
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Patella Brace
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(Also known as Patella Knee Brace, Patella Stabilizer, Knee Brace, Patella Support)
What is a patella brace?
A patella brace is a support which is designed to stabilize the knee cap and reduce stress on the patello-femoral joint (PFJ) during activity. It achieves this roll by preventing excessive movement (particularly lateral movement) of the knee cap and maintaining the knee cap in its optimal position during general activity.
Body Assist PAT STAB Patella Stabiliser
When should I use a patella brace?
Patella braces are generally beneficial for people who experience knee pain that arises from behind the knee cap (i.e. the PFJ) as a result of an abnormally tracking or poorly positioned patella. Patients who find relief from having their knee cap taped will usually benefit from a patella brace. Patella braces can assist in accelerating healing and recovery from knee injuries by reducing the amount of stress on the knee and aggravation during every day activities.
As a general rule, patients with PFJ pain should avoid aggravating activities, however, if unavoidable, a patella brace can provide support and stability to reduce injury aggravation caused by these activities. In these instances, the brace should be used during aggravating activities or during those activities that are likely to aggravate the condition.
It is important to note, however, that it is generally not advisable to constantly use a patella brace as your body can become dependent on it. This typically occurs gradually over time, with excessive use, and may be due to a loss of knee strength and stability resulting from reduced muscular activation during brace use (since the brace already provides support). Weaning off the brace is generally recommended as strength, range of movement and function improves and symptoms reduce.
When should I avoid using a patella brace?
Patella braces generally should not be used if they are uncomfortable or result in an increase in symptoms. However, it is important to note that this may occur in the initial phase of a knee injury when the knee is particularly ‘sensitive’ to minor movements and light touch. In these instances, the brace may still be beneficial for the condition although it should only be used once the initial sensitivity subsides and the brace is comfortable to wear.
If you are performing an activity that does not aggravate your condition or result in an increase in symptoms, then there is generally no reason to continue wearing the patella brace.
What conditions may benefit from the use of a patella brace?
The following conditions frequently benefit from the use of a patella brace:
- Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS)
- Chondromalacia Patella
- Dislocating (or subluxing) Patella
- Knee Arthritis (affecting the PFJ)
- Patella Instability
Other knee conditions that may also benefit from the use of a patella brace (particularly if the condition is chronic) include:
- Patella Tendonitis
- Osgood-Schlatters Disease
- Sinding-Larsen-Johansson Syndrome
- Medial Meniscus Tear
- Lateral Meniscus Tear
- ACL Tear
- PCL Tear
- MCL Tear
- LCL Tear
PhysioAdvisor’s Patella Braces
PhysioAdvisor’s patella braces have been carefully selected by experienced physiotherapists to ensure excellent quality and maximal benefit for patients.
Body Assist PAT-STAB Patella Stabiliser
The Body Assist PAT STAB Patella Stabiliser (PAT STAB) is designed to stabilize the kneecap and prevent abnormal (lateral) tracking of the patella.
The brace maintains the patella in its optimal position and prevents the knee cap from tracking towards the outer aspect of the knee (similar to taping), therefore reducing stress on the patello-femoral joint. This can reduce pain and hasten healing from knee injuries.
If your knee condition benefits from taping the knee cap towards the inner aspect of the knee, then this is the brace for you.
The PAT STAB utilizes a unique 3 point tension system, allowing greater force to be applied to the lateral (outer) border of the patella. A patella buttress in the shape of a horseshoe locks the patella in the desired position greatly reducing lateral movement of the patella (i.e. to the outer aspect of the knee).
Adjustment of the brace is simple – simply pull the single strap to lock the patella further to the inside of the knee. This patella brace is ideal for a variety of applications including sporting, recreational, home and work related activities.
The PAT STAB is washable, lightweight, fits left or right knees and can allow you to return to activity or sport sooner following injury.
Figure 1 – Body Assist PAT STAB Patella Stabiliser
Sizing
Measure around the widest part of your knee:
- Small – up to 30cm
- Regular – 30 – 42cm
- X-Large – 43+cm
How do I purchase a PhysioAdvisor patella brace?
To purchase a PhysioAdvisor patella brace simply click the link below or visit the PhysioAdvisor Shop.
- Purchase a Body Assist PAT STAB Patella Stabiliser
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