As we age, our bodies inevitably undergo various changes that can affect our performance and resilience, especially in high-impact activities like sports. Sports demand many instances of quick change of direction or impact activities that cause stress onto our knees.
For athletes over the age of 40, maintaining peak physical condition becomes more challenging, and the risk of injury increases because of the degeneration process.
One of the most vulnerable areas is the knee, which takes two times the pressure of impact than the hip joint. This is where knee braces come into play.
These essential pieces of equipment provide compression, support, and stability, significantly reducing the risk of injury and enhancing overall performance.
Understanding the Role of Knee Braces
Knee braces are designed to offer support to the knee joint, which can be particularly beneficial for older athletes. In a recent study, they found that men and women with anterior knee pain had reduction in pain symptoms while wearing a knee brace during recreational sports.1
As we age, the cartilage in our knees wears down, leading to conditions like osteoarthritis. This degeneration can cause pain, swelling, and instability. Knee braces help mitigate these issues by providing compression and support to the knee. The following are three reasons why knee braces can be effective:
1. Compression: One of the primary benefits of wearing a knee brace is the compression it provides. Compression helps reduce swelling and inflammation, which are common issues for older athletes. By improving blood flow to the area, compression also aids in quicker recovery and reduces the feeling of stiffness and pain.
2. Support: Knee braces act as external support systems for the knee joint. They help maintain proper alignment and prevent excessive movement that can lead to injuries. Some braces may have a hinge on both sides to reduce the stress to the ligaments. This is especially important for athletes engaging in sports that involve sudden stops, twists, and turns, such as basketball, tennis, or soccer.
3. Stabilization: Knee braces often come equipped with stabilizers, which are additional components designed to enhance the stability of the knee. These knee stabilizers are particularly beneficial for individuals who have previously suffered knee injuries or have conditions that affect knee stability. They help prevent the knee from buckling or shifting unexpectedly, thereby reducing the risk of further injury.
Should Athletes Over 40 Should Wear Knee Braces?
Here are several reasons why wearing a knee brace is a wise decision:
1. Prevention of Injuries: As the body ages, the risk of injuries increases due to factors like decreased muscle mass, reduced flexibility, and slower healing processes. Knee braces provide the necessary support and stability to prevent common injuries such as sprains, strains, and ligament tears. This can allow you to stay on the court or field longer than you thought.
2. Management of Existing Conditions: Many athletes over 40 suffer from conditions like osteoarthritis, previous meniscus/ligament issues or chronic knee pain. Knee braces can help manage these conditions by providing support and reducing the load on the knee joint. This can lead to less pain and greater mobility, allowing athletes to continue participating in their favorite sports.
3. Enhanced Performance: While it may seem counterintuitive, wearing a knee brace can actually enhance athletic performance. By providing support and stability, knee braces can give athletes the confidence to push themselves without the fear of injury. This psychological benefit can translate into better performance on the field or court.
4. Extended Athletic Lifespan: For many, sports are not just a pastime but a lifelong passion. Knee braces can help extend an athlete’s active years by preventing injuries and managing existing conditions. This means athletes over 40 can continue to enjoy the sports they love for longer.
For athletes over 40, wearing a knee brace can be a game-changer. By providing essential compression, support, and stabilization, knee braces help reduce injuries, manage existing conditions, and enhance overall performance. This could allow an individual to play the game they love longer into the future. Embrace the support that knee braces offer and keep moving forward with confidence and strength.
Zamst knee braces
Zamst offers a variety of knee braces to meet your preferences and knee injury concerns.
Visit here to explore more: Zamst knee collections page.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
EVAN JEFFRIES is a physical therapist with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT) from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences. He is also the owner of Evolving Motion Physical Therapy and has vast knowledge of the musculoskeletal system and has treated many orthopedic conditions by bringing a proactive approach to healthcare and lifestyle. Recently he has also been active on social media as an injury analyst mainly in related to injuries NBA players have sustained. Evan can be followed on his social media accounts.
1.Jonathan K. Sinclair, James Selfe, Paul J. Taylor, Hannah F. Shore, Jim D. Richards,
Influence of a knee brace intervention on perceived pain and patellofemoral loading in recreational athletes. Clinical Biomechanics, Volume 37,2016, Pages 7-12.
