A brace should fit you like a glove, not too loose, not too tight. If the orthopedic brace does not fit you correctly it will not serve its purpose or may cause further injury. Be sure to follow doctors instructions on the use of a product and the product instructions. A brace is better than tape since it stays in place and does not slip off when it gets wet with water or sweat.

An ankle brace helps after you have sprained your ankle. Got the same size as you would for your shoe size. This brace can be worn in your shoe and over a sock. There are pull on types and kinds that tie with strings or close with velcro. Use them for contusions, arthritis or tendonitis.

Knee braces are good for recurrent knee pain or can help you when lifting a lot of heavy items so you do not blow out your knee. Sometimes after a knee surgery a doctor will ask you to wear one to keep the swelling down. If you have a degenerating knee problems, arthritis or tendonitis or Chondromalacia this is a great way to support your knee. Chondromalacia, (aka Runner’s Knee) is when the anterior of the knee causes pain due to the cartilage under the kneecap becomes irritated, usually in young athletes. A doctor may advice you to wear a knee brace to help with your Runner’s Knee.

A shoulder stabilizer brace is used to help support, assist and restrict movement especially after injury or surgery. This type of orthopedic brace is used by professional athletes and usually made of neoprene that is a breathable material. Get one that has internal supports so that it will not catch on things or come off while in use.

Wrist braces with thumb support are ideal for those with chronic wrist pain or have sprained a wrist. You can still have full functionality of all your fingers with support to help you from having a swollen wrist. Some wrist braces have metal reinforcement that acts like a splint. When choosing a wrist brace make sure you get the one you need they are usually left or right handed ones. Try it on to be sure it fits well and is comfortable.

Be sure to wash your orthopedic braces every once in awhile. This helps get dirt and sweat out of them. Your instruction manual will tell you how to correctly clean them. IF you have velcro on them you can pick hair and other debris out with a pair of tweezers or a comb. If it has velcro do not put it in the dryer because it will melt and weaken.