Braces can be divided according to their use: rehabilitative, functional, or prophylactic. Rehabilitative
braces are used following injury or surgery to allow protection of the injured part while rehabilitation is taking place. Functional
braces are used following injury or surgery to allow an individual player to return to athletic activities while protecting the injured part from further damage. Prophylactic
braces are used in an attempt to prevent injury to a normal area while engaged in athletic endeavors.
Braces are available for the neck, back, and both the upper and lower extremities. There are many commercially available
braces that are quite useful and effective. It is still controversial whether or not prophylactic
braces prevent
knee injuries in contact sports. However, prophylactic
braces and/or taping have proved to be quite effective in preventing
ankle injuries. It should always be kept in mind, however, whether one is using rehabilitative, functional, or prophylactic
braces, that a good rehabilitation program and conditioning should be instituted along with their use to strengthen the involved area and prevent further
injuries.