BRACING

• There are two principal indications for bracing: prevention of an injury and support of an already injured tissue.

• Prevention of injury may also include support for safe and early return to activity.

• When choosing a brace, consider the type of injury being prevented and the area that needs to be supported.

Selecting a Brace

• Braces may be purchased in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors and range in price from the relatively inexpensive off-the-shelf variety found in large-box athletic stores or pharmacies, to custom-fabricated braces that are fitted and personalized to the individual.

• Braces are made to fit a wide variety of joint types and come in various sizes. When choosing a brace, the most important factor is the purpose for which the brace is intended and the area that it is intended for. For example, an ankle brace for a basketball athlete may not be the same as one chosen for an airline baggage handler.

• Braces should:

  • Increase the stability of joints and limit mechanical stress to adjacent joints.

  • Not interfere with normal joint function.

  • Not endanger others if being worn during contact sports.

  • Be adaptable to all body types.

  • Be cost effective.

  • Have evidence to support its use.