Knees provide stable support to the body and make it possible for the legs to bend and straighten. Knee problems can occur in people of all ages. Medical knee problems can be caused by a direct blow or osteoarthritis in the knee that is a result of wear and tear which is mostly seen in seniors. Rheumatoid arthritis is also another type of arthritis that affects the knee. However, the most common type of arthritis that is seen is the osteoarthritis where the cartilage in our knee breaks down as we age, thereby causing the deterioration of the cushion needed to absorb shock between the bones.
The symptoms of osteoarthritis include pain, swelling, bone spur formation, and a decrease in the range of motion. Osteoarthritis of the knee is the most common reason of disability among senior men and women. Several factors that may increase the risk of developing Osteoarthritis of the knee are hereditary, weight, age, trauma, and repetitive stress injuries.
Using a knee stabilizer is normally recommended as it makes movement a lot easier and reduces the pain to some extent. A knee stabilizer offers support and stability for an injured knee when worn properly. There are many types of knee stabilizers; some of the most common ones are:
Open Patella Knee Stabilizer: This type of knee stabilizer has a hole in the front to reduce pressure through the kneecap and allows the knee to breathe. It comes in two styles—a sleeve style or with adjustable straps.
Closed Patella Knee Stabilizer: This is a complete stabilizer that supports the knee completely and also allows the knee to retain more heat.
Hinged Knee Stabilizer: The hinges on this knee stabilizer offers stability sideways and also prevents the knee from bending back too far, which makes them the perfect choice for people following ligament injuries as well as for arthritis, cartilage problems, weakness, and instability.
Knee Straps: Knee straps put pressure through the patella tendon and support the kneecap.