Taking all the main factors into consideration, our picks for the best knee braces for meniscus tear goes to UFlex Athletics’ knee compression sleeve. This versatile sleeve comes with an anti-slip grip to keep it securely in place as you exercise or go about your daily activities. Plus, it’s designed to provide compression and support, for even the toughest injuries. Keep reading to find out more about the top knee braces for a meniscus injury.
Best Choice - Knee Compression Sleeve
Made from a four-way stretch fabric, UFlex Athletics’ knee compression sleeve is breathable and durable, and comes with anti-slip silicone to prevent it from slipping down.
Buy on AmazonOften caused by an accidental twist that damages cartilage, a meniscus tear can be painful and debilitating. Luckily, a braces for meniscus tear provides stability and takes pressure off the knee to protect it during activity. Take a look at our list of the best knee braces for meniscus tears, and get back on your feet.
Our Top Picks
The Ten Best Knee Braces for Meniscus Tears
Best Choice: Knee Compression Sleeve by UFlex Athletics
This sleeve provides both support and compression to alleviate the pain, stiffness, and swelling of a meniscus tear. Featuring a four-way stretch that hugs the knee from every direction, it promotes therapeutic heat to soothe sore muscles and encourage healing. Plus, the anti-slip silicone prevents the brace from rolling down or bunching up.
Main Features
- 4-way stretch
- Anti-slip silicone
- Optimal compression
- Therapeutic heat
- Alleviates pain and inflammation
Pros:
- Comes in 3 sizes
- Made from an elastic fabric
- Breathable and anti-bacterial
- Protects the knee
Cons:
- Some reviewers have complained of uneven compression
- Can stretch over time
Top Performance: Maximum Support Brace by Shock Doctor
This open patella knee brace for a meniscus injury features a pre-curved design and bilateral hinges for tailored support. Made from a four-way stretch spandex mesh, with lycra binding, it is both latex-free and antimicrobial. Plus, the easy-grip tabs make this brace a breeze to put on and take off.
Main Features
- Lycra binding
- Fits either knee
- Latex-free and antimicrobial
- Two heavy-duty hinges
- Easy-grip tabs
Pros:
- Premium stitching
- X-fit straps
- Moisture-wicking
- Therapeutic warmth
Cons:
- The sizes run small
- Higher price point
Can’t Count Out: Knee Compression Sleeve with Strap by Athledict
Here’s a knee brace that has been designed to conform to the shape of your knee. The compression sleeve narrows around the knee to give support and stabilization. There is an adjustable strap that can be used for additional compression or can be removed. With all these features and more it’s easy to see why this brace made our list.
Main Features
- Anatomically designed
- Non-slip silicone
- Adjustable and removable strap
- Uniform compression
Pros:
- Superior knee support
- Boosts circulation
- Adjustable support levels
Cons:
- Not dryer safe
The Other Knee Braces for Meniscus Tears We Reviewed
Hinged Knee Brace by Vive
Made from lightweight and breathable neoprene, this open patella meniscus knee brace comes with removable aluminum hinges for better medial and lateral stability. Plus, the top and bottom straps, with strong fasteners, deliver a personalized fit and keep the brace securely in place as you get on with the day.
Buy on AmazonKnee Support Brace by Bracoo
This open patella knee brace for meniscus pain keeps the kneecap in its appropriate position to reduce pain and stiffness. It features three adjustable straps that can be attached to virtually any point on the brace, and a padded stabilizer for a tailored fit and targeted support. On the downside, some reviewers have complained that this brace does not stay in place during movement.
Buy on AmazonKnee Brace and Compression Sleeves by Sable
These sleeves for torn meniscus hug the knees to provide stability and uniform compression. Made from an elastic weave, they are lightweight and breathable, and will not limit your range of movement. Plus, they are moisture- and odor-wicking. While these sleeves offer compression, some reviewers have reported that they do not provide sufficient support.
Buy on AmazonCompression Sleeves by Crucial Compression
This pair of compression braces is made from a nylon, rubber, and spandex blend, and comes with a double silicone grip to keep the sleeves from sliding down or bunching up. Plus, they are lightweight, breathable, and slim enough to be comfortably worn under clothes. This product comes in six sizes, however, some users have complained that the product sizing chart is inaccurate.
Buy on AmazonCompression Knee Brace by SB SOX
Recommended by doctors, this affordable knee sleeve for a meniscus injury offers compression to deliver support and comfort without minimizing your mobility. Plus, it is made from a lightweight and moisture-wicking spandex and nylon blend to keep you dry and odor-free all day long. While this sleeve is ideal for minor injuries, it may not offer enough support to be of benefit for a severe meniscus tear.
Buy on AmazonKnee Brace Support by TechWare Pro
Suitable for either the right or left knee, this open patella knee brace features four spring stabilizers, three bi-directional straps, and a non-slip silicone grip. Plus, it is made from moisture-wicking neoprene for maximum comfort and support. On the downside, this brace may not be long enough for tall individuals.
Buy on AmazonSupport Brace by Physix Gear Sport
Made from a four-way stretch lycra and nylon blend, this flexible brace delivers support without compromising comfort. Plus, it features anti-slip zig-zag grips for a snug and secure fit, and will not restrict your range of motion as you check off your daily activities. If you are considering buying this brace, however, keep in mind that its sizing chart runs small.
Buy on AmazonFeatures of the Best Knee Braces for Meniscus Tear
The symptoms of a meniscus tear include pain, swelling, and stiffness. Luckily, if you take the right measures, in most cases the injury can heal without the need for surgery. Wearing a meniscus knee brace can help to support your knee during the recovery process. Here are just some of the beneficial features of a knee brace for meniscus support.
Stability
A torn meniscus can destabilize the knee joint. Braces for meniscus support keep your knee joints in their correct position, protecting your ligaments and cartilage during the healing process. They can also be worn to protect your knees from a meniscus tear during sports and other high-impact activities.
Compression
Knee braces place pressure on the affected area to promote blood circulation. This, in turn, increases oxygen and nutrients in the body to speed recovery. Compression can also alleviate swelling, which is one of the symptoms of a meniscus tear.
Pain Relief and Prevention of Hyperextension
The right knee brace alleviates pain by reducing the pressure of your upper leg on the meniscus. A knee wrap will also stop you from making movements beyond your normal range of motion such as sudden twists, which are one of the most common causes of meniscus tears.
Tips on Healing a Meniscus Tear
Can You Exercise with a Torn Meniscus?
If you have a torn meniscus, talk to your doctor before embarking on any exercise program. They will be able to tell you what range of motion is safe in your particular situation. In general, gentle, non-weight bearing, exercises that don’t cause pain will not have a negative effect on a torn meniscus. In fact, physical therapy is often recommended as a part of the recovery process.
How Long Does it Take for a Torn Meniscus to Heal?
Provided that you don’t require surgery, a torn meniscus will usually take approximately four to eight weeks to heal. Non-surgical treatment usually involves the reduction of pain and swelling by icing of the affected area. Anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, can also be taken to reduce pain and inflammation.
What Happens if You Leave a Torn Meniscus untreated?
It is crucial that your take steps to heal your meniscus tear. If untreated, a partial meniscus tear can lead to a complete meniscus tear. In extreme cases, pieces of the torn meniscus can move into the joint. An untreated torn meniscus can also accelerate the onset of osteoarthritis and lead to other debilitation knee conditions.
Weighing All the Factors
All things considered, UFlex Athletics’ knee compression sleeve is the perfect choice for all-day use. It is breathable, anti-bacterial, and features a four-way stretch for optimal support and compression. Shock Doctor’s maximum support brace and Athledict knee brace compression sleeve also have their own strengths. Take a look at our list of the best knee braces for meniscus tears, and get a jumpstart on your recovery.
Best Choice - Knee Compression Sleeve
Made from a four-way stretch fabric, UFlex Athletics’ knee compression sleeve is breathable and durable, and comes with anti-slip silicone to prevent it from slipping down.
Buy on Amazon