Patients who are recovering from an ACL knee injury, or surgery, will need to protect their knee for a period of time during the healing process, as well as after the injury has healed. Published evidence on ACL bracing is controversial, and there are numerous knee braces for various indications. Depending on the patient’s activity level and goals, your physician will discuss all of the personalized ACL bracing options. Bracing the knee will help provide confidence during recovery, with a goal of preventing knee “buckling”.
Knee braces vary in terms of support. Patients who wish to participate in higher intensity activities will be prescribed a “functional” knee brace that is used for sports and walking on uneven ground. These usually contain aluminum hinging so that stability can be supported.