Monday, September 30, 2013

How An ACL Knee Brace Can Help Your Knee Injury


The ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) connects the femur and the tibia bone. This is a thigh bone and a shin bone respectively. The ligament connection gives stability to the knee joint. The ACL is made up of bands of tissue which are flexible and connect these upper and lower leg bones together. An ACL knee brace is designed to protect this ligament from injury which occurs when it is torn.

How injury to the ACL can occur

These bands of tissue may be injured in the course of participating in a sport like football or basketball. These sports exert pressure on the ACL ligament which can lead to tear, thus causing injury. Pressure is exerted when you jump, twist without moving your feet, pivot, or change directions suddenly.

In case your knee joint extends farther than normal, it can injure the ACL. A torn ligament leaves your knee joint feeling loose and ready to give way. There will also be intense pain when you injure the ligament.

A crack or pop sound in the knee joint may indicate this injury. Swelling may occur either immediately or later depending on the extent of the injury. The knee joint area will also have a sore feeling. ACL injury will leave your knees feeling weak and unstable.

How to prevent an ACL injury

The sensitivity of this ligament needs to be noted by all those involved in intensive activities like sports. The aftermath of a knee injury is pain and in severe cases, surgery. To prevent such unfortunate occurrences, ACL knee braces should be used. These are braces that are specifically designed to protect the ACL from injury.

There are ACL braces that are worn once injury to the ligament has occurred. These protect the ligament from further injury and facilitate quick healing.

How to choose the best ACL knee brace

Look for a knee brace that has a low profile design and is light in weight. A heavy brace will only subject unwanted pressure on an already injured ligament. Heavy designs are also uncomfortable to wear.

Choose a brace that has moldable cuffs. This allows for a custom fit since people have different knee shapes. These cuffs hold on to your lower leg and thigh to give a more perfect fit. This feature would suit those who have a thin calf and a bigger thigh size.

ACL knee brace is suitable for all types of people. These braces are easily available online or in knee brace shops. Their variety in the marketplace helps you choose the one that best suits you.

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