Knee Health & Compression Knee Sleeves

“Compression knee sleeves can be helpful for managing your pain,” says physical therapist Dawn Lorring, PT, MPT. “The location and severity of your symptoms will drive which brace works best for you.”

Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage (that’s the cushioning material that covers the ends of bones in joints.) This causes pain and stiffness.

In the knee joint, arthritis can occur at any of three points where the bones come in contact:

• Underneath the kneecap.
• Between the thigh bone (femur) and shin bone (tibia) on the inside of the leg.
• Between the thigh and shin bones on the outside of the leg.

People who have mild pain or stiffness that limits their activities can try a sleeve-type brace. These provide compression, which can reduce swelling and warm the joint. This might relieve the stiffness.

These braces also provide added support. “If your knee feels unsteady or wobbly, a compression-type brace can be helpful, Lorring says.

The benefits of compression knee sleeves

• Provide compression (not too tight) – improving blood flow and reducing pain,
• Prevent the loss of body heat – aiding in the recovery process,
• Improve sense of stability
• Improve proprioception– the capacity to feel the position of a joint, and
• Increase your range of motion.

With better blood flow, your synovial membrane is open to a steady supply of nourishing oxygen and nutrients and synovial fluid can lubricate the joint.

Using a knee compression sleeve can stop the cycle of debilitating joint pain and inactivity, and move you into a healthy cycle of improved fitness and mobility. Knee compression sleeves are beneficial for weightlifting, cycling, walking and running, among other activities.