Knee Braces for Football (Soccer)

Football players are commonly struck down by knee injuries, resulting most frequently from tackles and sudden changes of direction. Injuries such as torn ligaments and cartilage tears are regularly seen.

It is therefore not surprising that many amateur football players decide to wear a knee support or brace following such an injury. This can aid to protect the structures surrounding the knee from further injury, as well as giving the player a psychological boost and more confidence in the knee.

The important things to consider when purchasing a knee support for soccer include:

Ensuring that the brace can be worn for competitive football

Due to the potential for injury to an opponent, supports or braces with exposed solid parts are not permitted. This includes hinges and buckles. Some stabilised braces are suitable.
The support does not limit movement

It is important to be able to bend the knee fully so as to not affect performance.
The support is comfortable to play in

It is vital that a support is comfortable so that it does not cause the player to lose concentration or feel the need to constantly adjust the support.

The first point is of course the most important. In league fixtures hinged supports and those with exposed solid parts are not permitted. They may be acceptable in 5-a-side situations but it is always advisable to check with the governing body. If a hinged knee brace for football is really required then the question of whether the individual is ready to be playing the sport should be addressed.

A stabilised brace would be the highest level of support permitted, but even some of these have solid plastic buckles and similar which may not be allowed. Examples of permitted supports include the LP709a and LP X-Tremus.

Of course a simple knee support without any metal parts is also suitable and can be used to provide low-level support, as well as compression and often patella support. Wrap-around knee supports are also available for those who prefer the fit or like variable compression - especially useful if the knee swells with activity!

Further considerations include the material the support is made of. Many knee supports are made of neoprene - a type of synthetic rubber - which is used for its compressive and heat retaining properties. These are important in the early stages of an injury, however once returning to sport many people find neoprene is too hot and becomes uncomfortable. There are now a number of supports available in a range of other materials, including latex free for those with allergies.

Heidi Mills BSc Hons GSR is a Graduate Sports Rehabilitator who runs a sports injuryc linic in Norwich. She also works for http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net