Orthopedic Supplies for Knee, Ankle and Wrist Injuries

Sports injuries and other injuries related to the knees, ankles and wrists can be quite painful and interfere with everyday life activities. While rehabilitation treatments can go a long way toward treating these types of injuries, it is often necessary to support the injured area while the affected area heals. Specially designed orthopedic products can help to reduce pain and discomfort as well as correct positions which can lead to further injury or pain.

Knee sleeves and wraps are commonly used for injuries related to the knee area. They are available in products indicated for both light support for minor injuries and strains as well as post-operative support. Many such products are also waterproof, which makes it possible for consumers to shower without the need to remove the wrap. This type of product is usually available in sizes according to knee circumference; with 13 inches ranking as a small and 24 inches ranking as an extra-large. Increased stability can be provided with knee supports braced by two steel stays. Straps can be pulled across the wrap to insure stability.

Sprained ankles can be treated with a variety of ankle wraps, including cloth wraps and braces. The level of injury that has been sustained may indicate the need for one type of product over another. Minor sprains may be successfully treated with a cloth wrap while more sever sprains and strains may require a brace that can provide firmer, longer term support. Individuals should always consult their physicians for advice concerning which type of product would be best recommended for their specific injury and situation.

Specially designed ankle wraps can also be used to strengthen ankles that may be considered weak and result in frequent sprains and injuries. This type of ankle wrap brace is worn inside the shoe and provides gradual compression to soft tissue of the ankle area. It should be noted that individuals with diabetes or poor circulation should not use this type of product.

Wrist supports can provide much needed support and pain relief for a variety of conditions affecting the wrist area. Some of the more common conditions that are treated with wrist supports include tendonitis, carpal tunnel and arthritis. These types of products may or may not include support for the palm as well, so be sure to investigate this when shopping as some conditions do require palmar support in addition to wrist support. Other products on the market will allow for self-adjustment, so that the level of support and compression can be gradually adjusted. Also keep in mind that some products do allow for a range of motion, which can be important if you are particularly active while other such products provide complete immobility of the wrist and act as a type of splint. The latter product may be deemed necessary for severe injuries.

Many wrist support products come with a hook and loop system that allows the thumb to slide through for additional support; however, some products are intended to support the wrist only and do not include such a hook and loop device. Generally, wrist only supports are designed for very mild injuries. Some wrist only supports will generate heat to provide further treatment for mild wrist injuries.

Those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, or those who work on keyboards or other activities that require frequent hand motion may consider a wrist support that includes built-in wrist pads. These devices will actually correct the wrist position to a better ergonomic position; to better reduce fatigue and injury.

Jason Petrina is the Editor and Publisher of Article Click. For more FREE articles for your ezine and websites visit - www.articleclick.com

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