In the pursuit of an active and healthy lifestyle, we’ve all caused ourselves a mischief from time to time and hurt ourselves. It’s part of being human! However, the use of braces can be a game-changer, enabling people to continue enjoying sports and activities while managing discomfort. Day to day, I often witness the impact of braces on clients striving to maintain their fitness and well-being.

Firstly, I think it’s important to discuss the predominant fear people have around using braces. The pervasive concern is that bracing will cause weakness of the surrounding muscles, which is an understandable concern to have. However, there is no evidence to support this claim, and, in some cases, bracing has been shown to improve muscle activity surrounding the joint (particularly in the knee, low back and ankle).
Perhaps if you braced for an exceedingly long period of time (continuously for over 12 months) there may be adaptation around the joint. Generally, physiotherapists would only suggest wearing a brace for a shorter period unless there was a very good reason not to.
Ankle Braces:
Ankle braces are the most commonly worn brace to protect and prevent injury. Current guidelines suggest that after you have sprained your ankle, you should tape or brace your ankle for 12 months post the injury to help reduce the chance of recurrence. Be sure your brace has sturdy straps preventing excess sideways movement for optimal protection. Cheap braces often do not have the stability required to prevent injury.
Knee Braces:
Knee pain can stop you in your tracks and prevent you from doing much at all. The two most common issues we would suggest braces for are for osteoarthritis and patellofemoral (kneecap) pain. The two braces differ greatly and act on different tissues. Correct sizing and appropriate type of brace will dictate how much improvement you are going to get.
Low Back Braces:
Low back braces can be an absolute saviour when you have disabling acute low back pain. These braces work by providing support to your spasming spinal muscles and allowing them to relax and support the painful tissue.
Shoulder Braces:
Shoulder braces can be tricky and ineffective at times as it is such a complex joint which makes it hard to support. While I would generally use tape in clinic, we have found a particularly good brace to help with shoulder pain recently which tends to surpass tape in its effectiveness. Woohoo!
Correct bracing at the correct time for the correct issue is a really important part of healing and returning to activity. Your physio will be able to guide you on what is most appropriate for you at the time. Of course, this isn’t an exhaustive list of every brace you could possibly get (there is a multi-million-dollar industry based on providing braces for EVERYTHING!).
At Physique, we have a large array of braces that will suit most needs. We also work closely with major suppliers to get in what’s needed ASAP. It is also worth noting that some braces are eligible for a private health rebate – make sure you ask if this is applicable to you.) If you need a brace, look no further than Physique!

Hayden Buckman