Knee Brace (ACL)

[Almaz]

Hi, I started going to Dojo learning Japanese Jujutsu a few month ago in Chicago area. I really like it but I have a problem with my knee, something with ACL. Everything is fine but after twisting my knee after 50 times or so it just hurts me. I found plenty of used Knee Braces on ebay for very cheap and really would like to buy one. The only problem, I just have no idea where to find one locally to test it out if it really works for me. Would something work like shown in the picture? Would I be able to practice normally in Dojo without anyone noticing anything? Can I do standard Bows sitting on my knees with that kind of knee brace? Can anyone recommend one or to tell me your experience with some knee braces to prevent twisting my knee. Thank you in advance

 

[Dirty Dog]

Take a step back and go see an orthopedist.

 

[Almaz]

Take a step back and go see an orthopedist.

Well, maybe in the future but probably he is going to suggest a surgery. I've been having this problem for the last 8 years but for now a doctor is not a solution. Already have MRI on hand showing ACL problem but anyway, back to original post. Is anyone else using that kind of knee brace in Dojo training?

 

[ks - learning to fly]

I don't use that kind of brace, but have one for stability I wear during training and - you probably don't want to hear this - but it was prescribed by my orthopedic doctor....not every case demands surgery...and it's better to be safe than sorry

 

[harlan]

Braces are expensive and tailored to specific problems, and it's best to get the doc/insurance to pay part of it as it will include a fitting where you can discuss it with the technician/ortho specialist. I have 4 braces of various stability, and have found that the more structure and stability it provides, the more restrictive it is for training. I like the one above as it has less material behind the leg (that will impede range of movement).

I do karate, not jujutsu, but have not found one that keeps the knee from twisting.

Hi, I started going to Dojo learning Japanese Jujutsu a few month ago in Chicago area. I really like it but I have a problem with my knee, something with ACL. Everything is fine but after twisting my knee after 50 times or so it just hurts me. I found plenty of used Knee Braces on ebay for very cheap and really would like to buy one. The only problem, I just have no idea where to find one locally to test it out if it really works for me. Would something work like shown in the picture? Would I be able to practice normally in Dojo without anyone noticing anything? Can I do standard Bows sitting on my knees with that kind of knee brace? Can anyone recommend one or to tell me your experience with some knee braces to prevent twisting my knee. Thank you in advance

 

[shesulsa]

Hi, I started going to Dojo learning Japanese Jujutsu a few month ago in Chicago area. I really like it but I have a problem with my knee, something with ACL. Everything is fine but after twisting my knee after 50 times or so it just hurts me. I found plenty of used Knee Braces on ebay for very cheap and really would like to buy one. The only problem, I just have no idea where to find one locally to test it out if it really works for me. Would something work like shown in the picture? Would I be able to practice normally in Dojo without anyone noticing anything? Can I do standard Bows sitting on my knees with that kind of knee brace? Can anyone recommend one or to tell me your experience with some knee braces to prevent twisting my knee. Thank you in advance

I severed my right ACL in 2001 and wore a bledsoe brace (similar but more extensive to the picture you provided) at the recommendation of my orthopedist. He put limits on the hinges so I could not bend my knee further than 85 degrees and could not straighten it completely. I wore this during training both before and after my reconstruction surgery.

View attachment $bledsoe.jpg

I can tell you that with appropriate restrictions for a damaged or severed ACL that kneeling on that knee is a problem.

You have to know I will echo what others have said - please see a surgeon at your EARLIEST opportunity. Whatever the obstacle is that is keeping you from this, I hope it is lifted soon as there is SO much more damage that can be done to a knee with this injury!

I would also recommend that if you have any possibility of at least consulting with a physical therapist while you're waiting, please do and get some information on key exercises to keep that leg REALLY strong to keep the knee on track.

Oh! and - no standed twisting! And that's on you - no brace will keep you from doing this. Allow this experience to awaken your pelvic flexibility - turn your leg out from the hip, not the knee or ankle!

Best wishes to you and I hope you heal soon!