A Thigh Brace & It's Many Functions

A thigh brace, though not as popular as a knee brace, is just as important. It is made of

metal, plastic, or elastic materials. Some are slip-ons while others use straps and Velcro to close around the thigh. These are often wrapped around your upper legs to assist movement, like when you are kayaking or playing other types of sports. More importantly, however, they are used to restrict movement. They also reduce the weight bearing down on your thighs and correct your body shape.

There are hip and thigh supports that help take care of symptoms from varicose veins, hamstring pulls, and Iliotibial band syndrome. The main reason many use this type of brace is to protect the leg from injury. It does so by holding the leg firmly in place.

Over-the-counter braces are available in many sizes and designs. They can be bought from a retailer without special permits or prescriptions. Some are more specific and may need prescription from an orthopedic doctor. There are also custom braces to fit specific requirements or measurements and can take several weeks to make.

For more serious therapeutic uses, some thigh support systems assist in controlling movement. They also reduce hypermobility, or excessive hip or side rotation. For example, people with cerebral palsy have difficulty controlling thigh muscles and have a hard time walking straight. The disease causes paralysis and jerky movements. When walking, you may veer to one side with legs excessively crossing over and need assistance in keeping the muscles rigid or straight. Using a thigh wrap to put pressure on your lower body, you can walk in a straight line with minor leg crossing. The brace provides stability and with exercises to strengthen leg muscles, there will considerably be improved movement.

Serious Thigh Braces For Serious Sports

The Spiral Thigh Brace from Australia will provide compression from the lower back to the ankles to provide stability and prevent jerky movements. With shipping, it costs around $120, but well worth the investment when it can eliminate hypermobility symptoms.

In kayaking, the shape of the boat itself and the thigh braces tell you how and where to place your knees. They are adjustable thigh supports that are usually curved pieces. They slide along the cockpit of the kayak on a track. These are vital for comfort and boat maneuverability no matter what your height is, specifically when rolling back after flipping over. When you paddle, your arms and hands should not be touching the boat. The braces should help support, not interfere with, your normal paddling performance.

For regular thigh support, the Adjustable Thigh Support from Caption Sport can be purchased for the price of $17. It feels comfortable as it’s made of neoprene and has 3 Velcro openings for size adjustment. It provides compression and warmth for maximum benefit. The downside of this one-size-fits-all product is that sometimes, it does not really fit you and will constantly slide when you’re standing up or doing some exercises at home.

 You can also consider buying Pro-Tec Hamstring Compression Wrap priced at around $30. It features a dual Velcro strap and stays in place during strenuous activities. Bring this as one of your accessories when going to the gym to provide lower leg support.

A thigh support can be used for many things. Use it as an accessory when exercising or as a support for your lower legs when doing any strenuous activity or sports. You can also use it for therapeutic purposes to help eliminate cerebral palsy symptoms. It is widely available, comfortable, and easy to use. Outfitting most sizes, it also comes in adjustable designs. To prevent many types of thigh or leg injuries, it is important for any athlete to get a thigh brace.