Knee Support

Tdacks
Tdacks Posts: 136 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Is there a "wrong way" to wear a knee support? I bought a Wellgate Women's Ultra-Light Knee Support, hoping to relieve some post-run ache and stiffness. At first it worked really well, and I was having no pain during or after running. But now I find that the top of it tends to roll down and/or the entire thing tends to shift downward. Then it started hurting. I had sharp little pains while I was on the elliptical machine this morning.

I can't tell if it is because it is too small or too large or if I'm just putting it on wrong. I mean, it isn't inside-out or upside down or anything. It has silicone strips to hold it in place, similar to a strapless bra.The little triangle bit goes over my kneecap. I've used it maybe a dozen times, so I can't imagine it has worn out.

Replies

  • Mokey41
    Mokey41 Posts: 5,769 Member
    Why are you wearing it? Unless its' been prescribed by a doctor or physio therapist I wouldn't put it on at all. You aren't fixing a problem by covering it with a support. You need to address the reason you have pain when you run.
  • Tdacks
    Tdacks Posts: 136 Member
    Thanks for the response, I totally understand your point.

    It is the result of a fall about 10 years ago. I don't typically have pain during the run, even immediately after the injury (I was in basic training, and foolishly pushed through.). It just gets stiff after the run. My insurance is kind of crap, so they will consider it a pre-existing condition, and I don't really have the option of paying out of pocket for physical therapy. Sitting between a rock and a hard place, I'm trying to do what is possible.

    In any case, I'm not asking for medical advice, just some practical experience from people who may have worn one and solved the problem of it shifting around.
  • Mokey41
    Mokey41 Posts: 5,769 Member
    I had a compression fracture of my left knee years ago and used to wear one but it always drove me nuts. It would roll up, make me sweaty which led to being itchy. I finally just quit wearing it at all and worked on strengthening the muscles in my leg for better support. The only one I could stand at all was just a flesh colored bandage type thing but it really didn't do much either.

    I ask if you had a reason for wearing it because a lot of people who don't have a pre existing injury think slapping on a brace will fix the pain.

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