Just like most other sports, bowling requires physical exertion. You need to be fit to perform well, and you want to be pain-free in order to enjoy your game. This article will educate you on knee pain and will show you some of the best knee braces for bowling.
If you love bowling, you can continue playing the sport even as you get older. You might even decide to join a competitive league and practice more to improve your skills.
Why Do I Need A Knee Brace For Bowling?
Even though there are many ways to prevent knee pain, a knee brace is the most reliable way and requires no prescriptions or drugs.
You can use it to minimize existing pain while bowling. You can use many types of knee braces and supports to reduce the pressure on your joints while bowling.
Types of Bowling Knee Braces
There are many different knee braces, and it can get a little confusing when choosing one. This article will help by showing you the different types of knee braces and how they may help you.
ACL Knee Brace
Your ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) must be in good shape for your knee joint to stabilize. Sudden movements you make while bowling can overstretch this ligament and result in an injury.
If you suffer from such an injury, using an ACL knee brace will help boost blood flow and support your knee joint.
MCL Knee Brace
If you have an MCL (medial collateral ligament) knee injury, you will experience symptoms similar to the ACL injury. The symptoms include swelling and difficulty putting weight on the knee. You can use an MCL Knee Brace to prevent this injury.
Knee Immobilizer
If you’re recovering from an injury or surgery to one or both of your knees, you can use the knee immobilizer to help your knee muscles heal faster. It can also be used to protect the knee from getting injured.
The knee immobilizer works differently from the MCL and ACL knee brace as it holds the knee still, whereas the above braces do allow for movement.
Hinged Knee Brace
While the hinged knee brace can help you recover from a recent injury, it can also help take weight off your knee. Many people who have suffered injury to the knees find a hinged knee brace invaluable in recovery and in allowing them to enjoy sports while recovering.
Neoprene Knee Brace
The Neoprene knee brace is the most popular knee brace on the market. Even though it performs the same function as the others, it is designed a little differently for added comfort and support..
Knee Straps Or Knee Support Bands
Knee straps are ideal if you need to cover your knee top or bottom. By placing it at the knee bottom, you can use it for patellar tendon relief. On the other hand, you can use it to avoid knee pressure by placing it on the knee top.
Knee Stabilizer
There is a close similarity between ACL/MCL knee brace and knee stabilizer. Since it helps people to lift heavy objects easily, it is a great help while bowling.
Knee Compression Sleeve
Knee compression fabrics are used in making knee compression sleeves because they help to boost blood flow and protect the knee from injury.
Patella Knee Brace
The patella brace is incredibly easy to use, and, as it isn’t a thick material, it can even be worn under clothing.
Top 10 Knee Braces For Bowling
1. Mava Sports Knee Compression Sleeve Support
The Mava Sports Knee Compression Sleeve Support reduces pain by compression the joint.
It is made in a shape that makes it fit the knee perfectly and comfortably, so it will not be too tight or too loose. It is also easy to clean, so you can reuse it whenever you need it.
What We Like
- Value for money
- Great Quality
- Great Support
- Can be reused
What We Don’t Like
- The thick knee pad might make you uncomfortable.
2. SB SOX Compression Knee Brace
The SB Sox compression brace is ideal for those who love sports. It helps to relieve pain and provides comfort. This brace comes in a range of colors to suit your preference.
What We Like
- Beautiful design
- Comfortable
- Available in different colors
What We Don’t Like
- It can fail after many uses.
3. KARM Plus Size Knee Brace for Knee Pain
KARM Plus Size Knee Brace can be adjusted to fit your unique body.
This product is highly recommended for its stability and quality protection. It was designed mainly to help minimize pressure on your patella.
What We Like
- Great design
- Ease of use
- Adjustable
What We Don’t Like
- None!
4. POWERLIX Knee Compression Sleeve
The POWERLIX Knee Compression Sleeve is one of the best knee braces for sports right now. While it is effective for bowling, it is also perfect for everyday use.
This product was constructed with high-quality materials to increase the knee area’s temperature. You can use it for pain relief and recovery.
What We Like
- Easy to wear
- Effective for Bowling and other sports
What We Don’t Like
- The size dimensions can be confusing. You should test and make sure it fits you before purchase.
5. RiptGear Knee Compression Sleeve
The RiptGear Knee Compression Sleeve has a sleek brace, and it is perfect for bowling. This product is great value for money and is effective in managing knee pain.
The lateral support will protect you from getting injured, regardless of your movement.
What We Like
- High quality
- Different sizes available
- Easy to use
What We Don’t Like
- After consistent use, the end digs in.
6. EXOUS BODYGEAR Knee Brace Meniscus Tear Support
The Exous Bodygear brace is ideal for those who suffer from arthritis or tendinitis. It is fantastic value for money and provides comfort and support to the knee.
This brace is used with less material than most other braces. It also has ventilation, which reduces moisture and heat to the knee and allows the knee to bend with ease.
What We Like
- Comfortable
- Provides mobility
- It makes it easy to bend while Bowling
What We Don’t Like
- It can’t be used by children less than 16 years old
7. Shock Doctor Compression Knee Brace
Shock Doctor Compression knee brace is the best product you can get if you have a torn meniscus tear. This product helps you play the game and carry out your daily activities without pain in your knee area.
Shock Doctor guarantees that the therapeutic heat this product releases can help to increase your blood flow.
What We Like
- Easy to adjust
- Comfortable
- Great design
- Provides ventilation
What We Don’t Like
- Some of its parts are made with plastic materials that can easily break.
8. BLITZU Knee Brace
If you’re suffering from a hyper-extended knee, a BLITZU knee brace can bring an end to your pain. It comes in different sizes.
Purchasing the one in the right size is important for its efficiency. It also comes at a cheap price. You don’t need to break the bank to start enjoying bowling again.
What We Like
- Comfortable
- Great compressive support
- Available in different sizes.
What We Don’t Like
- Inefficient for band injuries
- It can’t be adjusted
9. TechWare Pro Knee Brace Support
Techware Pro knee brace support is known for its durability, and you can use it all day. Due to its lightweight, you can rest assured that it won’t affect your bowling performance.
No matter if you have mild or heavy pain, I assure you that the product will help you.
The Techware Pro knee brace has a bi-directional design, which was made to provide stable compression on your knee. Remember that you must make adjustments while using it for a long time.
What We Like
- Lightweight
- It is adjustable
- It makes compression easy
- It is durable
What We Don’t Like
- It is not suitable for use in hot weather.
10. Run Forever Sports Patella Strap Knee Brace Support
The Run Forever sports Patella Strap knee brace supports knees from a previous injury as it will provide instant relief and help you perform better while bowling.
For the perfect fit, simply adjust the strap curves, and this will help to reduce pressure on your knee area.
What We Like
- Great design that supports movement
- Provides extra support
- It provides instant relief
What We Don’t Like
- Strap stitches might start coming off after a few uses.
Checklist for Buying the Best Knee Brace for Bowling
To ensure that you are choosing the perfect knee brace for your needs, you do need to consider a few elements, these are listed below.
Protection
The first thing to think about is why you need a knee brace, whether it is for an existing injury, for healing from surgery, or even to prevent injury from happening at all. This is an important thing to keep in mind so that you are looking at the right braces.
Materials
The material used in making your knee product can hint at its quality. Usually, the best quality knee braces are made from Neoprene or elastic fabric.
Comfort
Apart from the need to prevent knee injury, wearing a comfortable product also matters. Choose a comfortable knee brace since your knees will move consistently while Bowling.
Price
Knee braces are available to fit all budgets, but like most things, the more you pay, the better quality you can expect.
Features
Some features you should check out for are breathability and non-slip technology. These features will make your knee brace perform better.
Sizing
You should check the size of the knee brace you choose before purchasing. Your knee brace won’t be effective if it is too big for you. On the other hand, your blood supply will become compromised if you wear a tight knee brace.
Durability
There is nothing more frustrating than spending money on a product that is damaged or broken after just a few uses, so it is a good recommendation to always read the reviews and to go for brands that you know.
Ways to prevent knee injury
Of course, you want to enjoy bowling without hurting your knee, and it is possible!
Stretching
Like other sports, you can prevent injuries by stretching your body before bowling. Regular exercise helps you warm and cool down your body.
Since you prepare your body to handle pressure, bowling will become easy.
Strengthen Muscles
You can protect your knees from injury by building the muscles used for bowling. Squats are perfect for your quadriceps. The more you build those muscles, the stronger your knees will become.
Proper Form
Proper stance is one of the most important things in bowling. Even though it is not a sure way of avoiding strain, it will certainly minimize the effect. You can find many videos online to help you work on the perfect stance.
Proper Shoes
Wearing proper shoes while bowling is just as important as keeping proper form. When you wear the right shoes, your risk of getting injured is significantly reduced. Proper bowling shoes are designed to reduce pressure on your knee joints.
Braces/Supports
Knee support is the best way to avoid hurting your knees while bowling. Whenever you put on a brace, you’re not only supporting your knee. You are keeping it stable whenever it is going through tedious use.
All of the Above
Even though these preventive measures are effective, there is no guarantee that you won’t injure your knee throughout your bowling career. You would put a lot of pressure on your knee over time.
How Do You Deal with Arthritic Knees When Bowling?
If you’re feeling pain in your knee because of Arthritis, you can still go bowling. Here are a few methods you can try to help you to enjoy bowling again.
Painkillers
You should consult your doctor if you are considering using painkillers so that you can be sure you will be getting the right medicine for your needs. Before playing, many bowlers take ibuprofen to help with Arthritic pain.
Arthritic Brace/Bowling Brace
Many bowlers living with Arthritis use knee sleeve braces. It is often recommended to use the one with two metal supports. This brace generates enough heat to reduce the swelling.
Remember to choose an arthritic brace of the right size. If it doesn’t fit, it won’t be effective.
Change Your Form
It is almost impossible to generate bowlers’ revs if you have Arthritis. You need to strategize and change your form. You can consider using the sliding approach. You would hardly strain your knees that way.
Cortisone Shot
You can manage your pain with the use of a cortisone shot. You should consult your doctor and let them prescribe it for you. A cortisone shot effectively reduces swelling, but only your doctor can tell you if it will help you.
Conclusion
You can find knee braces in different sizes and shapes. As mentioned earlier, they also perform different functions. While you can use some to prevent the recurrence of minor injuries, you can also use some for more serious injuries.
What matters is that you go through this article and gain enough knowledge to choose the best knee brace for bowling.
FAQ‘s
Do Knee Braces Really Work?
Yes, they work. The most important thing is that you find the right one for you. It will help you reduce knee pain and boost your performance while bowling.
What Kind of Knee Support Does a Knee Brace Provide?
You can use knee braces to reduce knee pains and pressure on your joints. Knee braces will help you perform better in bowling and also minimize your risk of getting an injury in the future.
What Can I Do To Prevent Knee Pain or Injury During Bowling?
There are many things you can do to prevent an injury while bowling. You can stretch, walk, swim, and perform other low-physical activities.
Most importantly, you should get a bowling shoe and use it whenever you play.
Is It Okay To Wear A Knee Brace All Day?
If a knee brace helps you to feel comfortable, feel free to wear it all day. It would help if you used it as many times as you need.
It is recommended that you take it off before bed to enjoy your sleep.
Do Bowling Knee Braces Help With Chronic Knee Pain?
Yes, bowling knee braces can help you minimize chronic knee pain. It would help if you got a knee brace of the right size to fit you perfectly. An oversized knee brace won’t help you feel less pain.
Why Does My Knee Hurt After Bowling?
You put your knee under pressure whenever you bowl. Even though the knee and other parts of our body can move in certain areas, constant strain for a long time can result in injuries.
How Can I Relieve The Pressure in My Knee?
You can relieve the pressure in your knee by resting, compressing, and elevating. These three methods are effective against minor pains. Most importantly, you should consult a doctor for better treatment.
Can You Bowl After Arthroscopic Knee Surgery?
The importance of talking to a personal doctor should be emphasized. You need to keep your doctor close after surgery and let them guide you until you recover.
Only your doctor should tell you when it is safe to start exercising.